Oswego (WSYR-TV) -- Health officials say the
SUNY Oswego student who came down with bacterial meningitis is responding well to treatment. The case was reported on Monday.
Health officials said Tuesday that about 17 others had close contact with the student and are undergoing anti-biotic treatment. No other cases have been detected.
The18-year-old female freshman was taken to SUNY Upstate Medical University early Monday morning, according to Oswego County Director of Public Health Jiancheng Huang.
Health officials say bacterial meningitis is a relatively rare, but serious illness that affects the brain and the spinal cord.
The disease is spread through the air and by direct contact with an infected person.
Symptoms include fever, severe headache or neck ache, chills, mental confusion, stiff neck, vomiting and sensitivity to light.
The county and state health department are working with Oswego State staff to make sure anyone who may have had close contact with the affected student will undergo preventative medication.
Additional resources online:
CDC: Meningococcal DiseaseMeningococcal VaccinesMeningococcal Disease Frequently Asked Questions
