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Pennsylvania High School Senior Dies From Streptococcus Pneumoniae Meningitis

Health officials say the strain is not typically contagious in casual school settings.

Overview

  • Ryan Duffy, 18, a senior at Neshaminy High School in Langhorne, died Tuesday after a sudden illness diagnosed as Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis.
  • He became ill late last week and was treated in an intensive care unit before his death, according to a district letter shared with families.
  • The Neshaminy School District says it is coordinating with the Bucks County Department of Health and has carried out enhanced cleaning at the high school.
  • The district reports no requirement for broad preventive measures for students and staff, and it has made counseling teams available, with administrators visiting Duffy’s classes.
  • Officials have not determined how he contracted the infection; CDC guidance notes this form of bacterial meningitis spreads via respiratory droplets, is not highly contagious, and vaccination offers the best protection.