A Pennsylvania high school student died of bacterial meningitis, according to the local school district.
Ryan Duffy, 18, a senior at Neshaminy High School in Langhorne, contracted Streptococcus Pneumoniae meningitis last week and was treated in the ICU before dying Tuesday, according to a letter sent to parents by the Neshaminy school district and obtained by ABC News.
Neshaminy High School in Langhorne, Pennsylvania.
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“It is with great sadness that we inform you of the death of a member of our school community, Ryan Duffy, who passed away today, October 14, 2025.. “Ryan’s family has given us permission to share with you that he became suddenly ill late last week and was admitted to the hospital’s ICU,” the letter said. “We keep the family in our thoughts and wish them strength during this difficult time. “Ryan was diagnosed with Streptococcus Pneumoniae meningitis.”
The Neshaminy School District is using enhanced cleaning protocols at Neshaminy Middle School, but the school said Duffy’s form of meningitis is not typically contagious.
“It is important to note that this type of meningitis is generally not contagious in a school setting and is not typically transmitted through casual contact, such as being in the same classroom or cafeteria,” the letter continues.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Although this type of meningitis is transmitted through droplets released when coughing, sneezing, or talking, it is not very contagious.
Parents in the community are mourning Duff’s death from the disease.
“These old diseases that have been around for years still affect people,” said Eddie Maurer, a Bensalem father, he told ABC News affiliate ABC 6. “It just doesn’t make sense. It’s hard to believe.”
Bacterial meningitis causes inflammation of the protective lining of the brain and spinal cord and can lead to death within a few hours if not treated properly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Symptoms include severe headaches, high fever, excessive vomiting, stiff neck and confusion, according to the CDC, and the best way to get vaccinated against the disease is through vaccination.
“Most people recover from bacterial meningitis if treated properly,” the CDC’s page on the infection says, but “those who recover may have permanent disabilities.”
It is not yet known how Duffy contracted the infection.
