If you have propr history of a positive TB skin test, a negative chest x-ray is required. Please ask your doctor or hospital to send a copy of the report to Kim Nihart, RN at nihartk@faith.edu.
While FBBC&TS has had no reported cases of meningitis, the State of Iowa has mandated that we make the following information available to our students:
Meningitis—Know Your Risk & Learn About Vaccination Some college students may be at risk for meningococcal disease, a potentially fatal bacterial infection commonly referred to as meningitis.
What is meningococcal meningitis? Meningitis is rare, but when it strikes, this potentially fatal bacterial disease can lead to swelling of fluid surrounding the brain and spinal column as well as severe and
permanent disabilities, such as hearing loss, brain damage, seizures, limb amputation and even death.
How is it spread? It is spread through the air via respiratory secretions or close contact with an infected person. This can include coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing items like utensils/drinking glasses.
What are the symptoms? Symptoms of meningococcal meningitis often resemble the flu and can include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, rash, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, and confusion.
Who is at risk? Certain college students, particularly freshmen who live in dormitories or residence halls, have been found to have an increased risk for meningococcal meningitis. Other undergraduates can also consider vaccination to reduce their risk for the disease.
Can meningitis be prevented? Yes. A safe and effective vaccine is available to protect against four of the five most common strains of the disease. The vaccine provides protection for approximately three to five years. As with any vaccine, vaccination against meningitis may not protect 100 percent of all susceptible individuals. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) along with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend college Students, particularly those living in dorms or residence halls, be vaccinated.
Whom do I contact for more information? To learn more about meningitis and the vaccine, contact Kim Nihart, RN in Health Services, or your health care professional. You can also visit the websites of the
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the
American College Health Association.
Iowa State law requires FBBC&TS to inform you of the risks associated with meningococcal disease and the benefit of vaccination, and this information has been provided above. You may also obtain information from the Health Services office by emailing nihartk@faith.edu.