Health officials in Butler County are currently investigating a suspected case of meningococcal disease involving a student at Miami University. The Butler County General Health District disclosed the potential case on Thursday, declaring their efforts to pinpoint individuals who were in close proximity to the affected student and supply them with a prescription for antibiotics. They are also collaborating with the university, Ohio Department of Health, and other partners to conduct contact tracing and raise awareness about the disease.

Miami University released a statement on Thursday evening stating that the Butler County General Health District is reaching out to students who may have had close contact with the infected student to offer guidance on symptoms to watch for and provide preventive treatment. If students do not receive communication from the health district, they can presume they were not considered high-risk close contacts.

Meningococcal disease, while rare, can be life-threatening and debilitating, health officials warn. This bacterial infection is caused by Neisseria meningitidis and can lead to severe conditions like meningitis and septicemia. Symptoms of meningococcal disease include sudden fever onset, headache, neck stiffness, joint pain, a rash of red-purple spots, sensitivity to light, and nausea or vomiting. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets and throat secretions.

The Butler County General Health District can be reached at 513-863-1770 for any questions or concerns. Miami's Health Services are also available for medical care for ill students, contact 513-529-3000 to schedule an appointment.