PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A student at Neshaminy High School in Bucks County has died after contracting bacterial meningitis.
The Neshaminy School District identified the student as Ryan Duffy. Officials said he became ill suddenly last week and was taken to the hospital. He died a few days later.
Meningitis is inflammation of the protective lining of the brain and spinal cord.
In a letter to parents, the district said the form of meningitis that Duffy had is "not usually contagious in a school setting" and does "not typically spread through casual contact, such as being in the same classroom or cafeteria." Still, the school will undergo enhanced cleaning as a precaution.
Dr. Delana Wardlaw with Temple Health told NBC10 that some forms of meningitis can be contagious.
“It can be spread through droplets. It can be spread through sneezing, coughing, close physical contact as well. So it is a contagious condition,” she said.
Parents should watch out for symptoms like severe headache, high fever, excessive vomiting, stiff neck, and confusion. Wardlaw said the best way to protect yourself and your kids is to get vaccinated and practice good hygiene.