The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued an update today on a meningococcal disease outbreak at Princeton University and called for continued vigilance after a student at Drexel University in Philadelphia died of the disease.

The CDC said the Drexel student had the same strain of meningitis that struck several Princeton students. The Drexel student also had been in close contact with students from Princeton University about a week before becoming ill.

Drexel University and the local health department have taken recommended steps to prevent additional cases, including the use of antibiotic prophylaxis.

The N.J. Department of Health said it continues to monitor the situation. DOH urged students at both universities to be especially vigilant to the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease and seek urgent treatment if suspected. Symptoms may include sudden onset of a high fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing or a rash. Handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes are also good practices to follow.

DOH also reminded healthcare providers that they must immediately report by telephone a known or suspect case of invasive meningococcal disease to the local health department. If unable to reach the local health department, providers should notify the state’s Vaccine Preventable Disease Program during regular business hours at 609-826-5964. After business hours, or on the weekend, providers should call NJDOH at 609-392-2020.

Additional information about meningococcal disease is available online from both the N.J. Department of Health and the CDC.