Dr. Brian M. DeLoach, Medical Director of Student Health Services at Georgia Southern, released a statement about the recent meningitis rumors on campus.

The rumors started early this week, when a student went to Health Services with acute changes in mental status. The patient was examined and transferred to the East Georgia Regional Medical Center (EGRMC) via EMS. Initial test showed that the patient does not have bacterial meningitis.

However, tests are still being administered for the possible presence of viral meningitis. The student has responded well to the treatments and is expected to make full recovery and return to campus soon. In the statement, Dr. DeLoach warns that the patient posses no health risks to the public.

According to WebMD.com, Meningitis is a rare infection that affects delicate membranes in the brain and spinal cord. Although bacterial meningitis can be contagious, viral meningitis is less severe and most people recover from them. Some symptoms include: sudden high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, seizure, confusion or difficulty concentration, among others medical conditions.

Health services recommend the following tips to keep the campus community safe:

– Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol based hand sanitizer

– Cover your sneezes and coughs with your elbow or a disposable tissue

– Stay away from others if you are sick

– Eat a healthy, well balanced diet; exercise regularly; and get adequate sleep on a regular basis