Definition

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes (meninges) surrounding your brain and spinal cord.

The swelling associated with meningitis often triggers the "hallmark" signs and symptoms of this condition, including headache, fever and a stiff neck.

Most cases of meningitis in the U.S. are caused by a viral infection, but bacterial and fungal infections also can lead to meningitis. Depending on the cause of the infection, meningitis can get better on its own in a couple of weeks — or it can be a life-threatening emergency requiring urgent antibiotic treatment.

If you suspect that you or someone in your family has meningitis, seek medical care right away. Early treatment of bacterial meningitis can prevent serious complications.

Clink on the link below to learn about the different types of meningitis, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

http://www.cdc.gov/meningitis/index.html

Click on the link below to learn about college meningitis vaccine requirements.

http://collegevaccinerequirements.com/requirements.php

Texas Department of State Health Services


To Texas School Districts:



In the 86th Legislature, HB 3884 required the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to create procedures for school districts to provide information relating to bacterial meningitis to students and parents. This requirement was previously assigned to the Texas Education Agency (TEA). DSHS has created a website with bacterial meningitis information aimed at students and parents.

School districts should provide the information from the DSHS website on the district website. Alternatively districts may provide a link to the DSHS page on the district website. For school districts that do not maintain a website, the information should be provided in hard copy to each student. A printable version of the information is available on the website. 

For questions, please contact us at schoolimm@dshs.texas.gov or 800-252-9152.



Assessment, Compliance & Evaluation Group
Immunization Unit
Texas Department of State Health Services

This service is provided to you at no charge by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Visit us on the web at http://www.dshs.texas.gov.

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