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Dorm Hazards

Mono, mold and more, oh my!  Keep your kids away from several health concerns this fall semester.


College is the beginning of a whole new chapter for your child. Chances are your happy-go-lucky freshman is more worried about strict professors and social outings than health hazards that may come up.  The best thing you can do is study up on potential issues so you're ready when you get that late night phone call.

Sharing tiny dorm rooms and cans of beer is a surefire way to spread the germs that cause bacterial meningitis, a potentially fatal infection that affects the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.  Much like the flu, meningitis can be spread through mucus.  Advise your student to get a meningitis vaccination, wash hands frequently, keep countertops and share surfaces clean and avoid contact with someone who is sick.

Mononucleosis, also known at Mono or "the kissing disease" can quickly become a nightmare for college kids, sidlineing them for 4 to 6 weeks.  It's usually passed through close contact like kissing or sharing a drink.  Tell your child to avoid mouth-to-mouth contac and consistantly wash hands.  Remind them that weeks of bed rest can put a new freshman out of the game their first semester. 

Tiny, blood-sucking bed bugs are also an issue to consider.  A college survey found that 25% of all exterminators have found infestations in college dorms.  These outbreaks require professional help and can occur for no apparent reason.  You can try to prevent these tiny critters by avoiding used furniture and carefully checking luggage after traveling.  If you already have bed bugs, washing linens in hot water and using mattress covers can hemp them from spreading. 

Mold infestation in walls can become a very large health concern particularly for those who have asthma, allergies or other respiratory conditions.  Keep clothes, bathrooms and kitchen areas dry to prevent it. 

Source: today.msnbc.msn.com/