A University of Wisconsin-Madison student was hospitalized with meningococcal disease, according to a university statement released Wednesday.
The disease is only contagious with very close contact with someone infected, and even then the risk of spreading it is small, according to University Health Services Director Sarah Van Orman.
Meningococcal disease is a specific strain of bacterial meningitis that can cause a healthy person to get seriously ill in a matter of hours. But, Van Orman stressed the risk of contracting the illness is low, even for those in direct contact with the student and there is no immediate threat to the community’s health.
The disease causes the lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord to swell. It is most often treated with antibiotics, but can sometimes be fatal, according to a university release.
Van Orman said spread of the disease requires saliva to be transferred between individuals by actions such as kissing or sharing cups and utensils.
Students in close contact with the hospitalized student have been contacted and given medication as a precaution, according to Van Orman.
Additional information about the student was not released, out of respect for the student’s family and friends, according to the release.
More information about meningococcal disease can be found on the UHS website. Additionally, students concerned about their health or in need of counseling can call UHS at 608-265-5600.
