Meningitis suspected over death of student

Sheffield Hallam University yesterday said it had started “incident control procedures” following the death of the student, whose body was found on Friday morning in shared student accommodation.

The cause of death has yet to be confirmed, but more details are expected after the completion of a pathologist’s report later in the week.

Clive Macdonald, director of student and learning services at the university, said: “Sheffield Hallam University has regrettably been made aware of the death of one of its students.

“As yet there is no confirmed cause of death but it is suspected to be a case of meningitis.

“We are working closely with the Health Protection Agency and have begun our incident control procedures.

“We have taken the necessary steps advised by the Health Protection Agency to identify any individuals who may be considered at risk.

“All those individuals have been contacted and have been advised to arrange to see a doctor who will be able to check their health.

“As we cannot confirm the exact cause of death at this stage, we are taking these steps as a precautionary measure and to minimise any risks.

“Anyone concerned about their health should contact their doctor or seek advice from an appropriate source.”

A spokesman for the Meningitis Trust said yesterday: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends at this difficult time.

“If anyone needs our emotional support, we will always be here as a listening ear, at any time of the day or night.

“Although the risk of a second case is low we are urging everyone in the area to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease, which can strike in minutes and kill within hours.

“If you know of anyone who is concerned about their health, make sure that they seek medical attention immediately.”