A student at University College Cork (UCC) has died from meningitis.
In a statement, leading charity Meningitis Research Foundation said they were "saddened" to hear of the death.
"We would like to offer our sincere condolences to her family and friends; our thoughts are with them at this extremely difficult time."
It is unclear what strain of the disease it was.
Meningitis is the inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. It shares many of the symptoms of other, more common, everyday illnesses such as the flu or even a hangover.
A spokeswoman said it is "vital" that people recognise the signs and symptoms of the disease, particularly the symptoms that are more unique to meningitis.
Image: Meningitis Research Foundation
For further information their Dublin office can be reached on: 01 819 6931, our Freefone Helpline on: 1800 41 33 44 or visit their web site www.meningitis.org.