Here's a quick update on one of our Clement Hall residents who was hospitalized this weekend. Though she remains hospitalized, we are pleased that her condition continues to improve.
Our student was hospitalized on Friday, Feb. 13 after having a high fever. The hospital that evaluated her was concerned that the meningococcal organism may have caused her illness. This organism can cause severe illness including meningitis.
Although the exact cause of her illness has not been confirmed, she does NOT have meningitis. Nevertheless, we have taken aggressive precautions to protect any potentially at-risk individuals.
The university provided preventive care to students who had close personal contact with the ill student (roommate, closest friends, etc.).
"Close personal contact" is defined as being her roommate, intimate behaviors such as kissing, sharing cigarettes or drinks, or any other activity that may have resulted in the exchange of body fluids. Only people who have had close personal contact with this student are of concern. We believe we have contacted everyone who has had close personal contact with this student.
It is important to understand that the following activities are not considered "close personal contact" and are therefore of minimal concern: sharing a class with the student, eating in the same dining hall, studying together, living on the same campus or on the same hall and going to meetings together.
UB's Student Health Services is working closely with the Erie County Health Department and has determined that no further action for the general campus community will be necessary at this time.
We remain pleased that our student's condition continues to improve. Thanks for your continued support and cooperation.
If you feel you are suffering from some or all of the symptoms listed below, feel free to call UB Student Health Services at 829-3316.
Although rare, symptoms of meningitis can include some or all of the following: fever, headache, stiff neck, vomiting, blurred vision, photophobia (light bothering your eyes) and a rash.
