It appears that the detail shared by all three students is the “Greek system”, which means the school’s sororities and fraternities.

 

As a precaution, the University of Pennsylvania decided to shut down the party scene and off-campus through the weekend. The cancellation applies to all gathering where significant interaction with food, drink, or intimate contact is likely.

 

A school spokesman said that the university and public health officials initiated a preventive campaign which already targeted more than 100 students. A special health clinic was organized at UPenn’s Student Health Service at 3535 Market Street and students who have had close contact with anyone who attended fraternity or sorority events are asked to visit it. Studentswho experience fever, severe headache, sensitivity to light, nausea, vomiting and lethargy are also advised to see a physician.

 

Meningitis is caused by a bacterial or viral infection of the cerebrospinal fluid and the inflammation resulted can cause serious brain damage. The infection carries flu-like symptoms, including headaches, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to bright light, a stiff neck, sweats and rashes. The disease is spread by close and intimate contact, as well as by sharing eating utensils and drinking glasses. In some cases, only non-specific symptoms may be present, such as irritability and drowsiness.

Meningitis is considered a medical emergency due to its potentially life threatening complications, as the inflammation is situated in the immediate proximity of the brain and spinal cord.