Meningitis case confirmed in student from McMaster University

TORONTO – Public health officials in Hamilton, Ont. have confirmed a case of meningococcal meningitis in a student from McMaster University.

The bacterial infection can be spread among individuals who have close, prolonged contact, such as household contacts, family members, or very close friends.

Symptoms include fever, rash, severe headache, vomiting, unusual drowsiness, irritability and a stiff neck.

With the help of school staff, health officials say they have identified and reached out to those individuals who have had close contact with the student.

Citing privacy reason, the identity of the student has not been released.

The public health office insists the general public and university community are not at risk.