Update 3:25 p.m.
The student is a senior at Columbus High School, a school official told MTN News.
School officials do not believe the student has infected anyone else, and school activities are continuing as normal, according to the official.
(original report) A student in the Columbus School District contracted bacterial meningitis over the weekend and is receiving treatment at a hospital, the district announced on social media Monday.
Bacterial meningitis is a life-threatening, contagious infection of the spinal cord and lining of the brain that progresses quickly and requires immediate medical attention.
The bacteria live in the nose and throat and spread through close or prolonged contact, including coughing, kissing, sharing drinks or living in close quarters, according to the district.
The district reminded parents to remind students to cover their mouths when coughing, to not share drinks, and to wash their hands regularly.
Students and parents should seek immediate medical attention if the child complains of severe headaches with a fever, has symptoms which worsen quickly, or if the child seems unusually confused, difficult to wake, or very ill.
