A University of South Florida student in Tampa who contracted bacterial meningitis has died, according to University Health Community Hospital.
Friends said sophomore Rachel Futterman, 19, became ill Friday morning. She was taken to the hospital Saturday. It is not yet known how Futterman got the disease.
Futterman was born in Orlando and attended Lake Mary Prep before her family moved to Texas.
Dozens of students who may have come in contact with Futterman rushed to the Student Health Center at the USF Monday morning after officials confirmed Futterman's illness.
Health officials received extra shipments of antibiotic Monday morning. Those officials have contacted about 50 students they believe may have been exposed to Futterman, who was a member of the Delta Gamma sorority.
Bacterial meningitis is an infection of the brain and spinal cord lining. Symptoms include stiff neck, fever, headaches and vomiting. It can be fatal, however, that is rare.
The illness is commonly passed on by kissing, coughing and by people sharing drinking glasses or cigarettes.
The bacteria that cause meningitis are not as contagious as those responsible for the common cold and the flu. They are not spread by breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Meningococcal meningitis strikes about 3,000 Americans each year and is responsible for approximately 300 deaths annually. It's estimated 100-125 cases of the disease occur annually on college campuses and 5-15 students die as a result.
Students, teachers and other USF employees can call (813) 974-2331 with questions and concerns.