BIDDEFORD — School officials say a high school student in Maine has been diagnosed with viral meningitis. This follows seven previous cases in York County and one in Yarmouth.

WGME-TV reports Biddeford High School sent a note to parents Thursday saying they’re asking students to wash their hands often, cough into their sleeves and not share drinks or utensils to help prevent the disease from spreading.

Biddeford School Superintendent Jeremy Ray says this is the first confirmed case the school has had.

The school nurse is asking parents to keep their kids home if they show symptoms including fever, stiff neck or unusual fatigue.

Viral meningitis is not as serious as bacterial meningitis.