1. Avoid Close Contact with Infected Individuals
You contract meningitis the same way you catch a cold or the flu. It is a contagious bacterial infection, so risky behaviors include kissing, sharing eating utensils or toothbrushes, sharing drinks, food or cigarettes. An infected person can pass on the disease with a cough or a sneeze. Protect yourself by avoiding contact with anyone who has contracted a known infection. Many schools will shut down if a meningitis outbreak occurs, in which case you should watch closely for the development of flu-like symptoms, including a stiff neck and severe headache. These are the first warning signs that infection has occurred.
2. Wash Your Hands
Young people and the elderly are at high risk for contracting meningitis, and carefully washing your hands is the first line of defense against infection. If you have young children, teach them proper hygiene. Use warm water and plenty of soap, and lather for at least 30 seconds. Scrub beneath your fingernails, rinse your hands thoroughly and dry them on a clean towel. Protect yourself from meningitis infection by washing your hands after eating, using the bathroom, handling publicly shared items, such as doorknobs and vending machines, and playing outside or with pets. Extra care should be taken any time you're in a crowded public place.
3. Vaccines Help Protect Against Meningitis
Four different vaccinations can protect you against a meningitis-related infection. Most children get the haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine at birth, but you should check with your doctor to make sure your protection is current, especially if you suffer from HIV or sickle cell anemia. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) is also routinely given to children and can protect against meningitis.
The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) is recommended for seniors aged 65 and older, and for anyone with a weakened or compromised immune system. If you're between the ages of 11 and 18, or if you're at particularly high risk of contracting meningitis, consider getting the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4). This shot protects against the most common forms of the infection.
4. Eat Well and Take Your Vitamins
As a general piece of advice, you should also try to maintain healthy eating and exercise habits, and take plenty of vitamin C. A strong, healthy body is better able to ward off infections and put up a stronger fight if meningitis is contracted.
