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The following is a news release from Western Illinois University:

MACOMB, ILL. -- A 22-year-old Western Illinois University student, who resides in Higgins Hall, has been diagnosed with bacterial meningitis. He is currently being treated at McDonough District Hospital (MDH) in Macomb. According to MDH officials, his condition has improved and he is in stable condition.

According to Mayo Clinic's website, bacterial meningitis can be caused by a variety of bacteria, and may cause symptoms of a high fever that prevents a person from eating or drinking, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, muscle aches, vomiting, rash, diarrhea and a sore throat -- much like the flu. Due to the rapid onset of the disease, one should seek immediate medical attention if experiencing two or more symptoms.

Beu Health Center Director Mary Margaret Harris noted that while bacterial meningitis is contagious, individuals must come into direct contact with the respiratory secretions from the infected person. Individuals should not share cups, eating utensils, toothbrushes, cigarettes, lipstick or anything that has been near someone else's mouth. The disease can also be spread by kissing.

"An individual cannot contract the illness just from being in the same room, such as a classroom or residence hall room, without frequent or prolonged contact with a person with the illness," Harris added.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), meningococcal disease strikes about 3,000 Americans each year. It is estimated that 100 to 125 cases of the disease occur annually on college campuses. Western Illinois students are encouraged to get a meningitis vaccination. The fee for the vaccine is $100, which can be billed to the student's account. In addition, students can receive a flu shot at no charge.

The vaccination provides protection against four of the five strains of the disease. The four strains cause up to 85 percent of meningococcal cases on college campuses.

For more information on meningococcal disease, its symptoms and the vaccine, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo.

For more information regarding health issues at Western or to make an appointment to receive the meningitis vaccination, contact Beu Health Center at 309-298-1888.