NAU student hospitalized with meningitis symptoms

A 21-year-old Northern Arizona University student who lives off campus was admitted to Flagstaff Medical Center on Tuesday morning with symptoms of bacterial meningitis.

The student was reported in stable condition Tuesday afternoon.

"While no laboratory tests have confirmed the NAU student has bacterial meningitis, the student has exhibited some symptoms consistent with the disease," said Beth Applebee, director of NAU's Fronske Health Center. "We are identifying individuals who may have had close contact with the student and are treating those individuals with antibiotics as a precautionary measure."

Test results are expected to be available Wednesday.

A Flagstaff Middle School student was admitted to Flagstaff Medical Center on Sunday night with a suspected case of bacterial meningitis.

The two cases are believed to be unrelated.

Meningitis is an infection of the spinal cord fluid and the fluid that surrounds the brain. Meningitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

The meningococcal bacteria only can be spread from person-to-person by direct contact with an infected person's saliva through kissing or sharing of personal items, such as drinking glasses, utensils, smoking materials and possibly through shared food.

Because symptoms may resemble the flu, including high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, rash, nausea and vomiting, meningococcal disease is often difficult to diagnose.

"Meningitis is a rare disease that cannot be spread through casual contact," Applebee said. "Nevertheless, if students believe they are experiencing the symptoms, they should seek immediate medical attention."

The university is continuing to monitor the situation in close liaison with the Coconino County Health Department and Flagstaff Medical Center.

The NAU web page will be updated as new information becomes available. If meningitis is confirmed, the university will establish a hot line for questions from students and parents and will distribute further information.

-NAU-