While it's believed there's no risk to students or staff, Lindblom Math and Science Academy High School on the city's south side will be closed Wednesday after officials said a student died from a "non-contagious form of bacterial meningitis."
Principal Alan Mather said he learned Tuesday afternoon that 16-year-old Savon Smith had died a day earlier.
"While school is closed, officials will conduct a thorough review and school cleaning out of an abundance of caution," he said in a letter to parents.
He said there were no other known or reported cases of the illness at the school but warned parents to seek medical attention if a child develops symptoms that include a sudden onset of fever, headache, and/or stiff neck. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light, and an altered mental status/confusion.
Chicago Public Schools CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett issued a statement saying "our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time."
- CDC.gov: Bacterial Meningitis
