Bacterial Meningitis New Requirement – Please Read!
The State of Texas now requires that every first-time student (regardless of age or classification), enrolling after January 1, 2010, residing on campus at WTAMU must show evidence of being immunized against bacterial meningitis. If you are a first-time student living on-campus, you must submit evidence that you have received the bacterial meningitis vaccination at least 10 days prior to checking in to the residence hall. International students must provide a certified English translation of all documents.
Exceptions to this requirement must be documented on a conscientious exemption form from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Information concerning an exemption form request can be obtained here under the heading of “Exclusions from Immunization Requirements”.
All Documentation or approved exemption forms must be submitted to:
Student Medical Services
West Texas A&M University
WTAMU Box 61401
Canyon, TX 79016 806-651-DCTR (3287)
*Please include your date of birth on all documentation.
Important Information about Bacterial Meningitis
Bacterial Meningitis is a serious, potentially deadly disease that can progress extremely fast – so take utmost caution. It is an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. The bacteria that causes meningitis can also infect the blood. This disease strikes about 3,000 Americans each year, including 100-125 on college campuses, leading to 5-15 deaths among college students every year. There is a treatment, but those who survive may develop severe health problems or disabilities.
What are the Symptoms?
- High fever
- Rash or purple patches on the skin
- Light sensitivity
- Confusion and sleepiness
- Lethargy
- Severe headache
- Vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Nausea
- Seizures
There may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin. These can occur anywhere on the body. The more symptoms, the higher the risk, so when these symptoms appear, seek immediate medical attention.
How is Bacterial Meningitis Diagnosed?
- Diagnosis is made by a medical provider and is usually based on a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory results from spinal fluid and blood tests.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the likelihood of recovery.
How is the Disease Transmitted?
The disease is transmitted when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, or by sharing drinking containers, utensils, cigarettes, toothbrushes, etc.) or come in contact with respiratory or throat secretions.
How do You Increase Your Risk of Getting Bacterial Meningitis?
- Exposure to saliva by sharing cigarettes, water bottles, eating utensils, food, kissing, etc.
- Living in close conditions (such as sharing a room/suite in a dorm or group home).
What are the Possible Consequences of the Disease?
- Death (in 8 to 24 hours, from perfectly well to dead)
- Permanent brain damage
- Kidney failure
- Learning disability
- Hearing loss, blindness
- Limb damage (fingers, toes, arms, legs) that requires amputation
- Gangrene
- Coma
- Convulsions
Can the Disease be Treated?
- Antibiotic treatment, if received early, can save lives and chances of recovery are increased. However, permanent disability or death can still occur.
- Vaccinations are available and should be considered for:
- Those living in close quarters
- College students 25 years old or younger
- Vaccinations are effective against 4 of the 5 most common bacterial types that cause 70% of the disease in the U.S. (but does not protect against all types of meningitis).
- Vaccinations take 7-10 days to become effective, with protection lasting 3-5 years.
- The cost of vaccine varies, so check with your health care provider.
- Vaccination is very safe – most common side effects are redness and minor pain at injection site for up to two days.
- Vaccination is available at WTAMU Student Medical Services or your health care provider.
How Can I Find Out More information?
Contact your own health care provider, WTAMU Contact Student Medical Services at (806) 651-3287 or your local or regional Texas Department of Health office. You can also find additional Information here. | 
