A McMaster University student has contracted meningococcal meningitis, the city says.

Though the bacterial infection is quite serious and can be spread among people who have had close contact with an infected person, city officials say there is not an increased risk to the public or the university.

"In cooperation with McMaster University, Hamilton public health services staff have identified and contacted those individuals who have had close prolonged contact with the case to offer appropriate follow up," a news release reads.

"The general public and university community are not at increased risk."

The city did not say who contracted the infection, when it occurred, or how many people the infected person may have come into contact with. Officials did not provide any information on the infected person's condition.

Meningitis is a bacterial infection that attacks the lining surrounding the brain and spinal chord, and can be spread when someone is exposed to an ill person's saliva or "nasal secretions," through kissing or sharing toothbrushes, cigarettes, drinks or eating utensils.

The World Health Organization has deemed the infection serious, and says it can cause severe brain damage and is fatal in 50 per cent of cases if untreated.

Symptoms include fever, rash, severe headache, vomiting, drowsiness, irritability and a stiff neck.

"Anyone with these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately," the city says.

Officials say protective measures to avoid infection include avoiding sharing items like cigarettes or cooking utensils without appropriate cleaning.