How to Protect Yourself From Meningitis

It is impossible to completely protect yourself from coming in contact with the bacteria and viruses that cause meningitis. But here are a few safeguards you can take to limit the likelihood that you and your loved ones will become infected.

Things You'll Need

• Vaccinations
• Antimicrobial Soap
• Surgical Masks

Instructions

1. Wash your hands frequently, especially if you've been out in public or around people who are ill. Use an anti-microbial soap if you can, and scrub thoroughly.

2. Evaluate your symptoms, especially if you have a cold or flu, to make sure you aren't developing meningitis. If you have been feeling a bit under the weather, then all of a sudden develop a sudden headache, neck pain or stiffness, a fever, a rash and/or photophobia, call your doctor.

3. Keep your immune system strong, especially in the winter and spring months when meningitis is most apt to occur. Exercise in moderation. Don't overdo activities out in the cold. If you are going to be huffing and puffing in the cold air, wear a mask to warm the air before it enters your lungs.

4. Treat earaches. Untreated earaches can develop into meningitis.

5. Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol. Alcoholics have a higher risk of developing meningitis than do others.

6. Talk to your doctor about receiving the meningitis vaccine called Menomune. Vaccinate your child. The incidence of a common form of meningitis was reduced by about 95 percent after children began receiving the Hib (Haemophilus influenza type b) vaccine in 1985.

7. Avoid kissing strangers and inhaling secondhand smoke.

Tips & Warnings

• For more information about meningitis, call the Meningitis Foundation of America at [phone].

• Avoid head trauma, especially in children. Head trauma makes a child more prone to developing meningitis. Never shake a baby or smack a baby hard on the head.

• Acute bacterial meningitis can be lethal within hours. For any unexplained fever in children between three months and two years, call your pediatrician.

• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet.

• This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.