1. Take the Same Steps You Would Take to Avoid a Common Cold
Viruses spread primarily through bodily fluids and skin-to-skin contact. If you're around someone with a known case of viral meningitis, you can prevent infection by avoiding contact with the person and his bodily fluids. That means you shouldn't shake hands or have any other direct contact with the infected person, and you should keep your distance. Coughing is one of the symptoms of meningitis, and if you get in the way of a sick person's cough, you might be heading to the doctor soon afterward.
2. Be Diligent About Washing Your Hands
Your hands are among the most common sources of viral infection. It's possible to pick up viruses on your hands in countless ways. Something as simple as holding a handrail while descending a staircase in a public place can lead to virus transmission. If you touch your mouth, smoke a cigarette or eat something without washing your hands, the virus ends up in your body. It's a good idea to get in the habit of washing your hands frequently when you're in a public place, particularly after using the washroom or handling shared objects. Proper hand washing techniques are easy to master. Use warm water and antimicrobial soap, lather your hands and scrub. Make sure to lather for a full 30 seconds and clean beneath your fingernails--most people forget this.
3. Use Care When Handling Shared Objects
If you must handle shared objects, make sure they're clean. Wear gloves if you're in an industrial setting and continue to practice diligent hand washing at all times. At home, you can take simple steps to cut down on the possibility of virus transmission through shared objects like cutlery, glasses and plates. Ensure that all shared household objects are washed with hot water and disinfectant soap before using them. Sequester any family member with a viral illness until her symptoms abate.
4. Immunize Your Child With an MMR Vaccine
Many different viruses can cause meningitis. One of the most effective preventative measures you can take to keep your children safer is to have them immunized against measles, mumps and rubella with an MMR vaccine.
The viruses that cause polio, measles, mumps and rubella can sometimes lead to the development of meningitis. These vaccines are standard for children born in developed Western countries, but you should talk to your doctor about getting boosters if you're unsure whether or not your children are still protected.
