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The school district was contacted by the Lapeer County Health Department of the confirmed case and sent letters home with students.

"We followed directions from the health department," said Lapeer Community Schools Superintendent Debbie Thompson. "Transmittal (of meningitis) is fluid to fluid."

According to the Lapeer County Health Department, bacterial meningitis is an infection caused by bacteria that can be passed from one person to another by direct contact with discharges from the mouth, throat, and nose. It is not spread through the air. However, it can be spread by kissing, sharing drinking glasses or pop bottles and other contact from exposure to saliva or mucus.

Preventive antibiotics are recommended only for those who have had direct contact with the student's saliva or mucus.

For those who have not yet been vaccinated against the disease, there is one available. It is recommended for high school and college students.

Stephanie Simmons, Lapeer County Health Department director and health officer, said there is a limited amount of the vaccine available there. The vaccine may also be obtained at physician's offices.

"We're encouraging hand washing for kids and to be aware of it," Simmons said. "A certain amount of kids will carry it."

The health department said symptoms of bacterial meningitis include the sudden onset of a fever (between 100 and 104 degrees), intense headache, nausea, vomiting, and a stiff or very painful neck.

Those with these symptoms are urged to call their doctor or go to the emergency room.

Jennifer Decker can be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8125 or jennifer.decker@lapeergroup.com