The University has received no reports of additional cases. One sick student called the campus health advice center on Sunday, but did not have the disease and is feeling much better.
The 3-7 day incubation period for meningococcal meningitis, which this case has been presumed to be, is nearly over. Today is the last day the University will offer preventative prescriptions for the antibiotic.
“On behalf of the whole campus community, I want to express my gratitude and relief that our sick student is nearly ready to leave the hospital,” said HSU President Lisa Rossbacher. “This has been a harrowing experience for him, and I know this has been difficult and emotional for his family. We wish them the best as he goes home to complete his recovery.
“I am also so proud of how HSU employees from across campus responded, particularly those in University Housing, University Police, and the Student Health Center. They were professional and caring, making sure the sick student received the treatment he needed, mobilizing a broader campus response, calling students who might have been exposed, and more.”
The student was treated at Mad River Community Hospital on Tuesday after University Housing staff found him sick in his room. They contacted campus police, and the student was transported by ambulance for treatment. Later that evening, he was transported to Redding for further testing and treatment.
Campus staff later reached out directly by phone to about 250 students who, like the sick student, live in Sunset Residence Hall and were considered potential risk. Also directly contacted were a number of other staff and faculty who may have been in close contact with the student. They were all advised to be treated as soon as possible with the antibiotic.
In addition to the calls to individuals, the campus sent a message through its text alert system, which reaches about one-quarter of students, as well as a message to all campus emails. Updated information was posted on the campus homepage.
Results of testing for the specific type of bacteria in this case are not expected until today at the earliest. As a precaution, it was treated as meningococcal disease.
When there has been a risk meningitis exposure, a preventative prescription for the antibiotic known as Cipro can be obtained through health care providers including family doctors, local clinics, and urgent care. Through Monday, Dec. 1, students can request a prescription from the Student Health Center by emailing their name, date of birth, HSU ID number, any allergies, and pharmacy information to Bacterial meningitis is much less contagious than the flu or common cold, and is not blood borne. Symptoms include headache, nausea, sensitivity to light, and altered mental status. The specific bacteria in this case has not yet been identified.
More information about bacterial meningitis is available from the CDC at cdc.gov/meningitis/index.html and CDPH at cdph.ca.gov/healthinfo/discond/Pages/MeningococcalDisease.aspx.
For medical guidance students may call the HSU Student Health Center at (707) 826-3146.