Student dies unexpectedly from bacterial meningitis: 'Just doesn't make sense'

LANGHORNE, Pa. (WPVI) -- A high school student in Bucks County died after contracting bacterial meningitis, according to the school district and county health department.

Ryan Duffy, 18, became ill last week with a case of the infectious disease. He was a senior at Neshaminy High School. The school district said he was treated in the ICU.

His death is prompting concerns from the community.

"These old diseases that have been around for years are still affecting people," said Eddie Maurer, a parent from Bensalem. "It just doesn't make sense. It's hard to believe."

Dr. Delana Wardlow, a family medicine physician, explained that bacterial meningitis is a "bacteria that is spread through respiratory droplets and invade the covering the of the brain."

She says the infection spreads quickly and can be deadly if not diagnosed and treated quickly.

Neshaminy School District said in a statement in part, "We hold the family in our thoughts and wish them strength in this difficult time."

"It is important to note that this type of meningitis is not usually contagious in a school setting and does not typically spread through casual contact, such as being in the same classroom or cafeteria," the statement continued.

Wardlow warns about how the bacteria can spread.

"It can be spread through respiratory droplets. It can spread through coughing. It can be spread through sneezing and close contact," said Wardlow, who stressed the disease can be contagious and everyone should be aware of the symptoms.

"High fever, severe headache, sensitivity to light, excessive nausea and vomiting, a stiff neck," she added.

The district says it's working with the Bucks County Health Department and using enhanced cleaning protocols at the high school.

As the Neshaminy community mourns the loss of Ryan, doctors say there's a way to protect yourself and your family.

"The biggest way vaccination. We have adequate vaccinations to provide protection against this illness," said Wardlow.

The district also said it has grief resources available for the community and that counselors visited all of Duffy's classes to speak to his friends and peers.