Cal Poly student diagnosed with meningococcal disease

A California Polytechnic University student has been diagnosed with presumed meningococcal disease, a bacterial infection that causes bloodstream infections and meningitis.

The affected student is receiving medical care and treatment.

The university and local Public Health officials are investigating the case, providing preventive antibiotics to contacts and attempting to educate the university community about meningococcal disease.

The Public Health Department is identifying anyone who may have had close contact with the ill student and recommending antibiotics to protect them from also becoming ill.

Meningococcal disease signs and symptoms, which are sometimes mistaken for those of flu, can include:

High fever Severe headache Rash Body aches/joint pain Nausea/vomiting Increased sensitivity to light Confusion Dizziness

Anyone with signs or symptoms of meningococcal disease should seek medical care immediately. Early treatment of meningococcal disease is critical as the infection can quickly become life-threatening.

First-year students living in residence halls are recommended to receive at least one dose of vaccine prior to college entry. More information about meningococcal disease can be found here.