A junior at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania died today of what is believed to be bacterial meningitis.

Benjamin Swantner, 20, an education major from the Natrona Heights area of Harrison, died at Grove City Medical Center, said university spokesman Karl Schwab.

While the diagnosis is not definitive, Mr. Schwab said the student had the clinical symptoms of bacterial meningitis and so the campus was being alerted.

An e-mail message to the campus community said the disease is serious and those in close contact with anyone infected with the disease -- such as sharing food or drink, close physical contact or prolonged close contact such as sitting next to the person -- should take "appropriate steps."

Such people were urged to call or visit the university's McLachlan Health Center Rhoads Hall within the next 24 hours or, if they have left the campus for the weekend, to contact their health care provider.

Kris Chiprean, director of the university's health center, said, "While this is a serious health situation, there is no reason to panic. Students and others, who have had close contact, not simply being in the same room, need to receive the antibiotic treatment."

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