A report of meningitis hit the campus community Tuesday, potentially marking the second case of the highly contagious and possibly fatal infection in the past four months.
A student who lives in Morrison Residence Hall was admitted to UNC Hospitals on Tuesday and diagnosed with symptoms of meningococcal meningitis. More concrete results most likely will be released today.
The student returned to campus Sunday night but did not experience symptoms until Monday.
Officials from the Orange County Health Department interviewed the student and are in the process of notifying others who could have had close contact with the patient.
Officials said they don’t anticipate releasing the patient’s name to the public because they have been able to identify contacts quickly.
Those who shared a household with the student or had direct contact with oral secretions through kissing or sharing a drink are at risk, according to the health department. The incubation period varies from two to 10 days but is most commonly three to four days.
Students who have questions should contact Student Health Service, and faculty and staff can seek information from the Employee Occupational Health Clinic.
Nurses with Student Health administered antibiotic treatments Tuesday and will continue their efforts this evening between 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the first floor lounge of Morrison Residence Hall.
The treatment also is available at Student Health during regular business hours, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
