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UCF Nursing Student Diagnosed With Meningitis

Monday, October 15, 2007 9:35:13 AM
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University of Central Florida

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Students at the University of Central Florida are on alert after a senior at the school of nursing was hospitalized with bacterial meningitis, according to the university's newspaper.

The school notified some students by e-mail over the weekend and prescribed antibiotics to those who came in contact with the sick student.

Concern over meningitis has been running high since the death of University of South Florida student and Orlando native Rachel Futterman. 

The 19-year-old sophomore died last month after being diagnosed with the infectious disease.

This isn't the first meningitis scare at UCF.  Last December, Rhett Davis, 20, was found dead inside his off-campus apartment.

Tests determined he had bacterial meningitis.

The hospitalized UCF student attended class early last week and has not been identified.  Student Health Services is still offering antibiotic prescriptions for those who feel they might be at risk.

To make an appointment, call  the Health Center at (407) 823-2701. 

Bacterial meningitis is a contagious infection of the brain and spinal cord.

Symptoms are a lot like flu and include high fever and body aches. However, meningitis symptoms also include discomfort looking into bright lights, confusion and extreme sleepiness.

About 3,000 Americans develop meningitis each year.
 
The illness is commonly passed by kissing, coughing and sharing drinking glasses or cigarettes.
 
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says college students are at a higher risk -- especially those living in dorms. 

Earlier this year, Florida legislators considered making the vaccine mandatory for college students. 

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