Kirkwood student’s death linked to bacterial meningitis

The obituary for a Kirkwood Community College student said the 21-year-old died due to complications of bacterial meningitis.

Chris VanSpeybroeck, of Conona, Ill., died Monday, according to information from the Van Hoe Funderal Home in East Moline, Ill.

VanSpeybroeck was living in Cedar Rapids and pursuing an associate degree in fire science at Kirkwood.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday at St. Mary's Catholic Church, East Moline, Ill.

Earlier this week, Linn County Public Health had reached 10 people in close contact with VanSpeybroeck. They were being given antibiotic treatments.

Meningitis, an infection of the fluid in the spinal cord and fluid that surrounds the brain, can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

Bacterial meningitis, which is much more serious than the viral form, can result in brain damage, hearing loss, paralysis and death. Symptoms include high fever, headache and stiff neck.

The disease is typically spread through saliva - by kissing or by sharing a drink, eating utensils or cigarette, for example.

A vaccine for meningitis is available.