San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

The Daily Aztec

San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

The Daily Aztec




San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

The Daily Aztec

SDSU continues care for students possibly exposed to meningitis

SDSU continues care for students possibly exposed to meningitis
File photo

San Diego State will continue to provide care for students possibly exposed to meningitis or in need counseling and psychological help after news that the freshman diagnosed with meningitis died Friday.

Students who have had close contact with the student, Sara Stelzer, from Oct. 5 to Oct. 14 should receive antibiotics to prevent possible infection. Student Health Services is offering  antibiotics at no charge and is open until 6 p.m. on Friday.

The bacteria can spread through close contact, such as:

  • Sharing drinking glasses, eating utensils, water bottles, cigarettes or pipes
  • Kissing
  • Living in close quarters

Preventive antibiotics are not recommended for students who don’t have symptoms and weren’t in close contact with Stelzer. A $91 vaccine is available for students who desire to lower future risks.

Student Health Services director Gregg Lichtenstein said Thursday that between 300 and 400 students may have been exposed to bacterial meningitis.

Two additional nurses are assisting Student Health Services, he added.

SDSU also offered students emergency counseling though SDSU Counseling and Psychological Services if they need support. Students can call (619) 594-5220 or visit its website.

About the Contributor
David Hernandez, News Editor
David Hernandez is news editor of The Daily Aztec. He joined the newspaper in 2012 and has previously been a staff writer, copy editor and blogger. He will graduate in May 2015 with a B.A. in journalism and minor in Spanish.
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San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913
SDSU continues care for students possibly exposed to meningitis