A high school senior in Pennsylvania has died after contracting bacterial meningitis, according to the local school district.
18-year-old Ryan Duffy, a student at Neshaminy High School in Langhorne, Bucks County, was diagnosed with Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis last week.
He was admitted to the hospital and placed in the ICU, but despite his doctors’ best efforts, he passed away on Tuesday.
In a letter sent to parents, the Neshaminy School District confirmed that Ryan died on October 14, 2025.
His family gave permission for the district to share that he had suddenly fallen ill last week, which led to his hospitalization.
The district expressed its condolences to his family and friends.
Ryan’s obituary described him as “an amazing young man who will be missed by everyone he touched.” It also mentioned that he had been looking forward to prom, the senior cruise, and graduation.
The tribute added that he “loved every type of game,” from video to board games, and often played them with family and friends.
School officials said the form of meningitis Ryan had is not usually contagious. However, out of caution, the district will implement extra cleaning measures at the high school.
The letter reassured parents that this strain of meningitis doesn’t spread through casual contact, such as sharing classrooms or cafeterias.
According to the CDC, Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis spreads mainly through respiratory droplets released when someone talks, coughs, or sneezes – but it is not considered highly contagious.
About Bacterial Meningitis
Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection that causes inflammation and swelling in the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Without immediate medical care, typically within hours, it can lead to lasting health problems – and in severe cases, can be fatal.
Common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, nausea or vomiting, confusion, and sensitivity to light.
It can also feel similar to the flu at first, which sometimes makes it hard to recognize early on.
Although bacterial meningitis is dangerous, the good news is that vaccines are available to protect against some of the most common bacteria that cause it.
Many people who receive fast and proper treatment make a full recovery.
However, for others, the infection can leave lasting effects such as hearing or vision loss, memory problems, or recurring seizures.
At this time, it’s still unclear how or where Duffy contracted the infection.
To honor his memory, the Neshaminy School District plans to hold a moment of silence during Friday evening’s football game.
