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Meningitis Cases Increasing in Georgia

The Georgia Department of Public Health has confirmed an increase in the number of invasive meningococcal disease infections in the State. Health Services is encouraging all students to review their immunization status and make sure that they are protected from this highly contagious illness.

College students are at higher risk of meningococcal disease.

What is meningococcal disease?

Meningococcal disease refers to any illness caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. These illnesses are often severe, can be deadly, and include infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and bloodstream.1

It is easy to spread from person to person. The bacteria can be spread by:

  • Sharing anything that comes in contact with saliva, like eating utensils, food or drinks;
  • Being in close quarters with someone;
  • Being sneezed or cough on; or
  • Kissing.

Symptoms

Meningococcal disease can attack without warning and early symptoms can often be mistaken for the flu. Symptoms include high fever, stiff neck, vomiting, headache, exhaustion, and a purplish rash. You should call your doctor immediately if you experience sudden and severe onset of these symptoms.

Protect Yourself and Others

The best way to prevent meningococcal disease is to get vaccinated. Two separate meningitis vaccines are necessary to be fully immunized against the disease: MenACWY and MenB.

Meningococcal disease strain B is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis on college campuses. Despite this, few people have received the MenB vaccine. Make sure you have BOTH meningitis vaccines to fully protect yourself and those around you.

For additional information, please visit meningitisprevention.org.

Next Steps

If you are not sure that you are up to date on your meningitis vaccines, please call Health Services at (912) 478-5641. A member of our team will be happy to assist you in reviewing your immunization records.

If you are ready to protect yourself and get the meningitis vaccine, visit Eagle OSH, your online student health portal, to schedule an appointment. Health Services is happy to offer both the MenACWY and MenB to those students who need them.


Parking Update – Statesboro Location

Health Services is pleased to offer complimentary parking to all patients at our Statesboro location.

Patients and visitors of Health Services will be granted a temporary permit for the length of their appointment. To activate your temporary permit, please enter your vehicle’s license plate number into the parking kiosk located in the Health Services (Statesboro) lobby.

Parking is available in designated spaces in the Nessmith-Lane Center parking lot across from our building. Fifteen-minute guest parking is located in front of our Statesboro location if needed.

Parking on the Armstrong Campus remains available in Lot 15A for patients with university parking permits. Pay-to-park spots are available in designated “AMP” spots.


2023/2024 Flu Shots Now Available

Health Services is excited to announce that flu shots are now available on campus in the Statesboro and Armstrong Health Clinics!

Statesboro Campus

Flu shots are currently offered through the Health Services Pharmacy. No appointment is required – just walk-in!

Pharmacy Immunization Hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00AM-11:30AM and 1:00PM-4:00PM.

Click here for Statesboro Clinic location information.

Armstrong Campus

Students may schedule a vaccination appointment through Health Services’ Eagle Online Student Health Patient Portal. Once you are in the new patient portal, click on “Appts” to schedule your vaccination appointment.

Click here for Armstrong Clinic location information.

Fall Flu Shot Clinics

Join us for one of our on-campus events this Fall!

Armstrong Flu Clinic
Friday, September 22, 1:00-4:00PM
Armstrong Health Clinic
(Student Services Annex, Compass Point)

Statesboro Flu Clinic
Wednesday, October 18, 1:00-4:00PM
Statesboro Health Clinic
(984 Plant Drive)

No appointment necessary. Please bring a front-and-back copy of your insurance card or $25 (cash or check). These clinics are open to all Georgia Southern students, faculty, and staff.


Director’s Welcome Letter – Fall 2023

Dear New Students of Georgia Southern University,

Welcome to our vibrant and diverse campus community! On behalf of Georgia Southern University Health Services, it is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to each and every one of you. We are excited to have you join our Eagle family and are committed to supporting your health and well-being throughout your college years.

At Georgia Southern, we understand that your health is integral to your academic success and overall college experience. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals is here to provide comprehensive, student-centered care tailored to meet your unique needs.

Located conveniently on the Statesboro and Armstrong campuses, Georgia Southern University Health Services offers a wide range of healthcare services. From routine check-ups, immunizations, and preventive care to mental health, sexual health, and physical therapy, we are here to address your medical needs with expertise and compassion.

Our team of healthcare providers and support staff are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment where you can feel comfortable seeking care. We value your privacy and confidentiality and adhere to strict professional standards and legal guidelines to protect your personal health information.

Georgia Southern University Health Services also collaborates with other campus departments and student organizations to promote a culture of well-being and support. We work closely with the Counseling Center, Campus Recreation and Intramurals, and Student Wellness and Health Promotion to provide comprehensive care that addresses the diverse needs of our student population.

As you embark on this exciting chapter of your life, remember that your health and well-being are our top priorities. We are here to support you, advocate for your well-being, and ensure that you have the resources and services you need to thrive as a knowledgeable healthcare consumer.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions, concerns, or healthcare needs. We are here for you, and we are honored to be a part of your journey at Georgia Southern University.

Once again, welcome to Georgia Southern University. We look forward to serving you and being your partner in health and wellness.

Go Eagles!

Emily Rogers
Director of Health Services


Armstrong Clinic – Summer Hours

The Health Services Armstrong Clinic will be closed Monday, May 29 through Wednesday, August 2. The clinic will reopen on Thursday, August 3. During this time, Armstrong campus students may schedule a telehealth or in-person appointment with the Statesboro Clinic. In case of emergency, dial 911 or 9-911 from a campus phone.