CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLERIGHTNOW) – Nicolas “Nico” Ramos-Esteban, a first-year student at the University of Virginia, has died from meningitis, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser organized in his memory. His passing follows a confirmed case of meningococcal disease at UVA earlier this month.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), meningococcal meningitis is one of the two most common types of meningococcal infections, occurring when the bacteria infect the lining of the brain and spinal cord, causing swelling.

Ramos-Esteban died on Friday, March 7, after battling the illness for a week, the fundraiser states.

On March 2, UVA’s Department of Student Affairs notified students that a student had tested positive for meningococcal disease. In the letter, officials said the university worked with the Blue Ridge Health District to identify close contacts and provide preventative treatment. They also asked students to avoid sharing personal items such as cups and toothbrushes to limit the spread. Read our earlier report on the confirmed case and UVA’s response here.

A fundraiser launched by Phi Kappa Psi to support Ramos-Esteban’s family has raised $62,269 of its $100,000 goal as of March 8. Donations can be made through the GoFundMe campaign here.

March 2, 2025, Student Affairs Letter

Dear Student,

We are writing to make you aware of a confirmed student case of Meningococcal disease at UVA. The student in question is being treated at UVA Health. Per Virginia Department of Health (VDH) protocols, Student Health and Wellness (SHW) has worked closely with partners in VDH and has identified all known close contacts of the patient and assisted others who may have been exposed in order to limit the potential spread of the disease.

As you may know, Meningococcal disease is a rare but serious illness that can be transmitted when individuals are in close contact with an infected person. Infection most often occurs through the sharing of bodily fluids or secretions, not through airborne transmission. While most people who are exposed do not develop symptoms, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks. A small portion of infected people can develop serious and even life-threatening symptoms. Initial symptoms are characterized by a sudden onset of fever, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion, vomiting, and/or rash. Meningococcal disease can often be treated with physician-prescribed antibiotics. If you exhibit symptoms, please contact Student Health and Wellness and follow their instructions. Symptoms of Meningococcal disease usually start within 3-4 days and can appear up to 10 days after exposure. For additional information, visit the Virginia Department of Health website.

A 24-hour hotline for general questions regarding this situation is available at (844) 439-5705. Students who are experiencing symptoms or believe they’ve been exposed should contact Student Health and Wellness by scheduling an appointment online or by calling (434) 924-5362, or 434-297-4261 after hours. To prevent unintentionally exposing others, please do not walk into the clinic without first discussing your situation with a member of the care team.

To prevent the spread of Meningococcal disease, avoid sharing personal items (such as toothbrushes, drinking glasses, etc.), practice good hand hygiene, and avoid close contact with others who’ve been exposed or are symptomatic. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms.

Thank you for all you are doing to safeguard your own health and that of others.

Sincerely,

Kenyon R. Bonner
Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer

Chris Holstege, M.D.
Senior Associate Vice President for Student Health and Wellness