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CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – A University of Virginia student has tested positive for meningococcal disease, a rare potentially life-threatening bacterial that causes swelling in the brain and spinal cord.
The student tested positive on Sunday. UVA is now working with the Blue Ridge Health District, the regional branch of the Virginia Department of Health, to trace anyone who may have had contact with the patient.
The disease, which is seen just a handful of times per decade, is spread through close physical contact, including the exchange of saliva and/or mucus. UVA has advised students and community members to avoid sharing cups or toothbrushes, and to practice good hand hygiene.
Students were notified of the situation by a letter from the Department of Student Affairs.
March 2, 2025, Student Affairs Letter
Dear Student,
We are writing to make you aware of a confirmed student case of Meningococcal disease at UVA. The student in question is being treated at UVA Health. Per Virginia Department of Health (VDH) protocols, Student Health and Wellness (SHW) has worked closely with partners in VDH and has identified all known close contacts of the patient and assisted others who may have been exposed in order to limit the potential spread of the disease.
As you may know, Meningococcal disease is a rare, but serious illness that can be transmitted when individuals are in close contact with an infected person. Infection most often occurs through the sharing of bodily fluids or secretions, not through airborne transmission. While most people who are exposed do not develop symptoms, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks. A small portion of infected people can develop serious and even life-threatening symptoms. Initial symptoms are characterized by a sudden onset of fever, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion, vomiting, and/or rash. Meningococcal disease can often be treated with physician prescribed antibiotics. If you exhibit symptoms, please contact Student Health and Wellness and follow their instructions. Symptoms of Meningococcal disease usually start within 3-4 days and can appear up to 10 days after exposure. For additional information, visit the Virginia Department of Health website.
A 24-hour hotline for general questions regarding this situation is available at (844) 439-5705. Students who are experiencing symptoms or believe they’ve been exposed should contact Student Health and Wellness by scheduling an appointment online or by calling (434) 924-5362, or 434-297-4261 after hours. To prevent unintentionally exposing others, please do not walk into the clinic without first discussing your situation with a member of the care team.
To prevent the spread of Meningococcal disease, avoid sharing personal items (such as toothbrushes, drinking glasses, etc.), practice good hand hygiene, and avoid close contact with others who’ve been exposed or are symptomatic. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms.
Thank you for all you are doing to safeguard your own health and that of others.
Sincerely,
Kenyon R. Bonner
Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer
Chris Holstege M.D.
Senior Associate Vice President for Student Health and Wellness