University of Illinois authorities say a University student has been hospitalized for treatment of bacterial meningitis.

The University declined to identify the student, saying only that he or she was admitted Thursday to a hospital in Evanston.

University spokeswoman Robin Kaler said officials have been in touch with people who may have been in close contact with the student at campus.

Those people are being treated with antibiotics by McKinley Health Center, 1109 S. Lincoln Ave.

Kaler said the University offers a meningitis vaccine to all incoming freshman and about 2,000 students a year take advantage of the vaccine.

Symptoms include headache, stiff neck and high fever, as well as nausea, vomiting, discomfort when looking at bright lights, confusion, and sleepiness. From ten to 14 percent of cases are fatal.

“We hope students will do it,” she added.

Kaler said the University does not expect the disease to spread. No information about the student or the student’s condition was released.

It has been about 18 months since a University student was last diagnosed and treated for bacterial meningitis.