A student with a probable case of bacterial meningitis has been hospitalized, UK spokesman Jay Blanton said. 

“Bacterial meningitis is a serious and potentially fatal disease,” Blanton said. “In the interest of safety and to ensure everyone’s health and well-being – which is always our first and most important priority — the University is working to provide information to the campus community about bacterial meningitis as well as signs and symptoms of the disease.”

Blanton said that anyone with signs or symptoms of meningitis should seek immediate medical attention.

Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, headache and stiff neck.

“There are often other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, photophobia (increased sensitivity to light) and confusion,” Blanton said. “Symptoms of bacterial meningitis can appear quickly or over several days.”

The student’s residence is being cleaned and those who have been in close contact with the student are “being provided further details, information and resources,” Blanton said.

The CDC has more meningitis information on their website.