A female sophomore student in the College of Communications is recovering at Carle Hospital after contracting meningococcal meningitis and being hospitalized last Wednesday.

The Daily Illini chose not to reveal her identity to protect her privacy rights.

A friend of the patient said she is conscious and able to talk, but will likely miss most of the spring semester.

Dr. Robert Palinkas, director of McKinley Health Center, said everyone who had close contact with the patient, including members of her sorority have been offered vaccinations and antibiotics.

Rachella Thompson, communicable disease investigator for the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District, said bacterial meningitis entails a "high fatality rate" unlike viral meningitis, the more treatable strain.

Despite the risks, Palinkas said the case should not cause any alarm in the University community.

Early symptoms of meningitis include fever, headaches, and a stiff neck.

Check back with DailyIllini.com for updates.