The back-to-school season marks an exciting milestone for many families — sending a child off to college for the first time.
Between packing, planning and preparing for campus life, it’s easy to overlook important health questions.
As your child gets ready for this next chapter, their health should be part of the conversation. One important topic to discuss at their next checkup is meningitis.
Dr. Anjana Neupaney, a pediatrician with University Health, answers common questions about this disease and shares steps you can take now to help protect your child before they head back to school.
Q: What is meningitis and what causes it?
Meningitis is swelling in the thin layers of tissue that protect the brain and spinal cord.
Meningitis can be caused by:
- Viruses
- Bacteria
- Fungi
- Parasites
- Amoebas
Viral meningitis is the most common type. Dr. Neupaney explained that it usually happens when a virus enters the body through the mouth or nose and travels to the brain. Dr. Neupaney went on to say, “most people recover within seven to 10 days, though some may need hospital care.”
Bacterial meningitis is less common, but it is more dangerous. It can start with symptoms that feel like a cold. Then it can get worse as the infection spreads to the brain.
Common causes of bacterial meningitis in kids are:
- Hemophilus influenzae
- Strep pneumoniae
- Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcal disease)
The causes of bacterial meningitis can vary by age. Group B strep, E. coli and Listeria are other bacteria that can cause meningitis, especially in babies.
Meningitis can cause serious, long-term problems with the brain and nerves, such as:
- Coma
- Coordination problems or clumsiness
- Epilepsy
- Memory loss
- Paralysis
- Seizures
- Speech problems
- Vision loss
- Hearing loss
- Behavior or mood problems
According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 6 people who develop bacterial meningitis die as a result.
Q: Is meningitis common in the U.S.?
Cases of meningococcal disease, which is a type of bacterial meningitis, have been rising in the United States since 2021.
In 2025, 463 confirmed and probable cases of meningococcal disease were reported. That’s the second-largest number reported since 2013. “While the disease is rare, it can spread quickly in places like college dorms,” said Dr. Neupaney.
Q: What age groups are most at risk for contracting meningitis?
Anyone can develop meningitis, but the bacteria that commonly causes it are different in these different age groups:
- Babies under age 1
- Teens and young adults (ages 16-23)
- Adults age 65 and older
Beyond age, other factors that can increase your risk of meningitis include:
- A weakened immune system
- Living or working in crowded spaces such as dormitories
Bacterial meningitis is contagious, easily spreading from person to person. That makes close contact with an infected person a major risk factor.
Q: When should I get my child the meningitis vaccine?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children receive a dose of the meningococcal vaccine at age 11 or 12. A booster shot is then recommended for children ages 16 to 18.
During these time frames, the shot helps protect teens as they finish high school and start college.
In the state of Texas, students receive one dose of the meningococcal vaccine by seventh grade. Students enrolling in college must provide proof of vaccination within the five years prior to enrollment.
“Teens and young adults, especially those living in dorms or group housing, are at higher risk because the disease spreads easily in close quarters,” explained Dr. Neupaney. “This is why the meningitis vaccine is a requirement for college students.”
There are two different vaccines, that cover different strains of meningococcal bacteria for pre-teens and teens. They are usually available at your pediatrician’s office or a local pharmacy.
Some children in the pre-teen and teen age group are at a higher risk and may need extra vaccines. Doctors may also suggest vaccines that protect against viruses linked to meningitis, like:
- Chickenpox
- Flu
- Measles
“For younger children, a vaccine for strep pneumonia should also be considered,” said Dr. Neupaney.
You can receive certain vaccines on a walk-in basis at most University Health pharmacy locations.
Q: How do I talk to my kids about meningitis?
Meningitis can look like the flu or a cold at first. But it can become life-threatening very quickly.
It’s important for teens and young adults to know the symptoms and act fast if they happen.
Common symptoms include:
- Confusion
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Eye pain or discomfort in bright light
- Stiff neck
Many of these symptoms are common in less serious health issues, so how can you tell the difference?
The red flags parents and teens should know are:
- A sudden, severe headache
- A stiff neck with a headache or light sensitivity
- Confusion or acting different than usual
- A rash on the skin
- Vomiting that won’t stop
If these symptoms appear, get emergency help right away. Call 911 or go to the emergency room.
Q: What should I do if my child might have meningitis?
If your child is experiencing symptoms of meningitis, treat it as an emergency.
While these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Doctors can run tests to confirm meningitis. They may take a blood sample or collect fluid from around the spine.
Based on those tests, a doctor can determine the best way to treat meningitis. Bacterial meningitis may be treated using powerful antibiotics, while viral meningitis is sometimes treated with antiviral medications.
Early treatment can be lifesaving.
Pediatric Care at University Health
When it comes to your child’s health, a pediatrician can be your go-to resource. University Health’s pediatric providers offer comprehensive primary care for children’s unique health needs.
Whether you have questions about keeping your child healthy and well or need to schedule an annual checkup, we’re here to help.
Going with "vaccine" here vs. "vaccination" because vaccine is the medication while vaccination is the act of giving the vaccine. Seems a better fit here.
