West Babylon High School Staffer Diagnosed With Viral Meningitis

WEST BABYLON, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A health warning is going out to students and parents on Long Island after a staff member at West Babylon High School was diagnosed with viral meningitis, school officials said.

There is a "limited risk" of the virus being spread, according to a letter to parents from the district which was posted on the school's website Monday.

Viral meningitis is generally not as serious as bacterial meningitis but still, school administrators are urging students and families to take measures to avoid getting sick.

To prevent the spread of infection the CDC suggests practicing proper hygiene, washing hands thoroughly, cleaning contaminated surfaces, and covering your face while. Officials also suggest avoiding kissing and sharing drinks with an infected person.

The school said it has "performed surface cleanings in rooms occupied by the staff member and will continue to undertake routine surface cleaning throughout the school."

Symptoms of viral meningitis include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to bright light, sleepiness, lack of appetite and nausea.