|
Date
Contact:
Tom Davis
Troy Office of University Relations
334/670-3196
tomdavis@troy.edu
Office of University Relations
253 Adams Administration
Troy, AL 36082
(334) 670-3196
(334) 670-3274 (fax)
| Meningitis
vaccination program scheduled for Feb. 6 |
| Student
Health Services of Troy State University has scheduled a special
vaccination program for students on Tuesday, Feb. 6. The program, which is set for 1-7 p.m. in Adams Center Ballroom D, will immunize students against the threat of meningococcal meningitis, said Becky Norsworthy, director of Student Health Services. The vaccination program is part of a meningitis prevention initiative, she said. "Students will be able to receive a vaccine that can provide protection against four of the five most common strains of meningococcal disease," Norsworthy said. "These strains account for nearly 70 percent of meningococcal cases on college campuses." Meningococcal meningitis is an infection that starts quickly and affects the brain and spinal cord, Norsworthy said. The infection is spread through direct contact or airborne droplets. Symptoms include high fever, headache, stiff neck and nausea. The disease infects about 3,000 Americans are each year, she said, and is responsible for 300 deaths annually. Cases of meningitis have risen on college campuses in recent years, Norsworthy said. Studies suggest that college students are more susceptible because they live and work close together in dormitories and classrooms, she said. Lifestyle appears to be a risk factor as well, as smoking, alcohol consumption and bar patronage increase the chance of contact with an infected individual. Sponsored by Student Health Services, the vaccination program will be provided by VACCESSHealth. Cost is $85.For more information, contact Student Health Services at 670-3452. To register or to obtain additional information, contact Joslin at (334) 670-3374 or call the TSU Department of Art and Design at (334) 670-3391. |