(HealthDay News) -- The closeness of college dorms and cafeterias means students are prone to getting sick or acquiring infections.

Colleges typically have a medical facility on campus that students can go to if they feel sick, but a more serious illness may require a visit to the emergency room.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says college students shouldn't ignore any of these symptoms that could mean a serious illness:

• A fever of 102 degrees F (39 degrees C) or higher.
• A headache and stiff neck.
• Pain with urination.
• An unusual discharge from the genitals.
• A change in a female's menstrual cycle.
• Long-lasting pain in the abdomen.
• A persistent cough, chest pain or trouble breathing.