GOOSE CREEK, SC (WCBD) –  A student attending Westview Primary in Goose Creek was diagnosed with viral meningitis over the weekend.

After speaking with a nurse from the Department of Health and Environmental Control, staff at the school sent a letter to parent and guardians of children who may have been exposed, notifying them about the diagnosis.

Berkeley County School District officials say the letter provided information to help parents and guardians understand what meningitis is, how it is spread and what symptoms to look for if they suspect their child may have been exposed.

“Officials encourage parents/guardians of children who may have been exposed to pay close attention to the symptoms and seek medical assistance if they are concerned about their child’s health,’ said district spokesperson, Katie Orvin.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, viral meningitis is an inflammation of the tissue that covers the brain and spinal cord.

They say it is often less severe than bacterial meningitis, and most people get better on their own.

However, health officials say it is very important for anyone with symptoms of meningitis to see a doctor right away because some types of meningitis can be very serious. They say only a doctor can determine if you have the disease, the type of meningitis, and the best treatment, which can sometimes be lifesaving.

The CDC says you can contract viral meningitis at any age, but some people have a higher risk of getting the disease, such as children younger than 5 years old and anyone with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms include fever, headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to bright light, sleepiness or trouble waking up from sleep, nausea, irritability, vomiting, lack of appetite and lethargy.