UTEP students need Meningitis Shot

EL PASO - Studies have shown that freshmen living in dorms are particularly vulnerable to meningococcal disease.

Nearly 3,000 cases of meningitis are reported every year in the U.S.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10-12 percent of the cases are fatal (about 300 to 360).

Among those who survive, approximately 20 percent suffer long-term consequences, such as brain damage, kidney disease, hearing loss or loss of limbs.

UTEP says all students are required to provide documentation of their meningitis shot before they move into the dorms.