An inmate diagnosed with meningitis has died at Ventress Correctional Facility in Barbour County, where the Alabama Department of Public Health is investigating an outbreak of bacterial disease.

Laboratory tests confirmed that three inmates were infected with streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. Two developed meningitis, including the inmate who died. Meningitis is an infection of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord. An autopsy is being performed.

The Department of Corrections had reported the inmate's death on Monday.

The bacteria can also cause pneumonia and bloodstream infections. The bacteria spread person-to-person by direct contact with respiratory droplets, like saliva or mucus, the ADPH said.

The Alabama Department of Corrections will provide antibiotics to inmates and staff who have had close contact or shared cigarettes with infected inmates and to those who have a fever or flu-like illness. The ADPH has also ordered vaccine for those not vaccinated previously.

The ADPH has requested assistance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

about pneumococcal disease.