Page 53 - MIN.VOS JULY 30,2015

PUBLIC HEALTH
DEPARTMENT
ADVICES STUDENTS TO
VACCINATE THEMSELVES
AGAINST MENINGITIS

ARUBA TRAVELLER - Thursday, July 30 2015 SINCE 2009 we have observed that the amount of Meningitis cases has increased in

Europe.
Countries like Great Britain, Finland, Sweden and Holland are experiencing a
drastic increase in Meningitis compared to earlier years.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes (meninges) surround-
ing your brain and spinal cord.
The swelling associated with meningitis often triggers the “hallmark”
signs and symptoms of this condition, including headache, fever
and a stiff neck.

Most cases of meningitis in the U.S. are caused by a viral infection,
but bacterial and fungal infections also can lead to meningitis.
Depending on the cause of the infection, meningitis can get bet-
ter on its own in a couple of weeks or it can be a life-threatening
emergency requiring urgent antibiotic treatment.

Due to this growing meningitis problem Great Britain decided to in-
troduce a campaign raising awareness to vaccinate against meningitis
especially teens between the ages of 13 to 18 needs to be extra careful
since they are the ones that have been infected the most.

Since many of our kids will be leaving for Europe soon to continue
their studies, the Department of Public Health advises all stu-
dents leaving to study abroad to take precautions and to get
themselves vaccinated.
The vaccine is obtainable at the Department of Public Health
contagious diseases sector, costs Afl. 15,- and consists of only
one 1 doses.
For more information contact the contagious disease sector
at 5224200.

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