This year, over 350 cases of meningitis have been reported in the United States alone, 25 of them resulting in death.

The outbreak has been traced to pharmacies which administer injected drugs, primarily steroids.  Boston.com reported that pharmacies, like the New England Compounding Center in Framingham, Massachusetts, are being shut down for reportedly noticing that mold and bacteria had contaminated some the pharmacy’s drugs, and failing to report or dispose of them.

The drug poisoned with the disease was a steroid, specifically, preservative-free methylprednisolone acetate.  Three lots were contaminated in May, June and August and then shipped to clinics in 23 states.

Whether all the vials were contaminated is unknown.  Out of the 23 states to receive the drug, 19 have reported cases of the disease.  Tennessee tops the list with 10 deaths, followed by Michigan at five.  Missouri did not receive any of the steroids from Massachusetts and has not reported any cases of meningitis yet.

According to the Mayo Clinic, meningitis is “an inflammation of the membranes surrounding your brain and spinal cord.” Symptoms include swelling in the neck area, headache and fever.  While meningitis is capable of curing itself within a few weeks, anyone who suspects they might have meningitis is encouraged to seek medical care immediately to avoid serious medical consequences including hearing loss, blindness, brain damage, paralysis and even death.

The Mayo Clinic names college students as a group at risk for contracting meningitis. Because meningitis spreads through bacteria, anyone living in a small community is at a higher risk than others.

All SLU students are required to receive a vaccine for meningitis, among other diseases, before they can be admitted to live in SLU residence halls. Should a student refuse to receive the vaccine, that student must present “a signed waiver acknowledging risks/benefits of [the] vaccine,” according to the Saint Louis University Student Immunization Requirements form.

In addition to receiving an immunizing vaccine, it is recommended to frequently wash one’s hands to avoid the spread of bacteria that may contain meningitis. Healthy diet and exercise as well as ample sleep are recommended. It is also encouraged to cover one’s mouth when coughing or sneezing to prevent spreading the disease. Students might also clean their dorms and bed linens more frequently and wear rubber flip-flops to the shower or lavatory.

Or just stay away from the New England Compounding Center.