Western-Star.com

OXFORD —A Miami University student is being treated at a Cincinnati hospital for bacterial meningitis after being diagnosed Wednesday, April 30, according to university officials.

The disease is a bacterial infection spread by intimate person-to-person contact where saliva is transmitted. University officials said in a statement they have contacted those who are at a high probability of risk and are providing them with a preventative antibiotic.

University officials said they are working with residents of the corridor in Stanton Hall, where the meningitis victim lives. Officials have not released the victim's name, but did say he was a male.

Final exams for Miami students start next week.

Bacterial meningitis – as opposed to viral meningitis – is a serious disease that requires aggressive treatment for victims as well as preventive measures for those having had intimate contact with one who is infected.

Tammy Gustan, a nurse practicioner and acting director of clinical services at Miami, said bacterial meningitis was "less contagious, more serious" than viral meningitis.

Ohio law requires that students living in residence halls on campus either demonstrate that they have received the appropriate immunizations, or sign a waiver indicating that they are aware of the disease and the risk, and have chosen not to be immunized.

This law is implemented at Miami as part of the housing contract, and has been in effect since 2005, University officials said.

The university encouraged students in the release who live off-campus to consider receiving the immunization as well, and the vaccine is available at the Student Health Service.

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