A Harvard student, whose identity was not revealed by the University, contracted viral meningitis and was discharged from Brigham and Women's Hospital earlier this week, according to University officials.

After the symptoms were reported, the "appropriate college authorities were notified," said University spokesperson Joe Wrinn.

Meningitis is "an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal chord," according to a pamphlet issued by University Health Services (UHS). Its cause may be either viral or bacterial.

Bacterial meningitis is the more serious form of the disease and can be transmitted by person-to-person contact. Symptoms may include a sudden fever, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, a stiff neck and a rash. The brain can suffer permanent damage if swelling is not controlled.

Viral meningitis is less dangerous. The symptoms are similar to those of bacterial meningitis, but the disease is not communicable.

During the 48 hours before test results were available to determine the nature of the student's meningitis, "primary contacts" such as friends and roommates were tested, Wrinn said.

There is no record of a case of bacterial meningitis ever occurring at the University, though one case was reported in western Massachusetts, according to Wrinn.

The student is reportedly in good condition and University officials have called the case "an isolated incident."