How to Prevent Bacterial Meningitis

Bacterial meningitis is an infection of the fluid around the brain and spinal cord and is caused by one of three kinds of bacteria. Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria leads to streptococcal meningitis, and neisseria meningitidis bacterium causes meningococcal meningitis. The Hib bacteria can also cause bacterial meningitis. All three forms of bacterial meningitis are very dangerous and, even with proper treatment, can sometimes result in brain damage or death. Vaccination and restricted contact with people affected by bacterial meningitis can help prevent infection.

Things You'll Need

• Immunizations
• Soap
• Antibacterial gel
• Antibiotics

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Keep your child up-to-date with Hib vaccinations that are administered several times during the first year of life during well-baby checkups, as well as a booster at either 12 or 18 months old. Hib vaccinations protect children from one of the forms of bacterial meningitis.

• 2

  Consider getting additional vaccinations against meningococcal and streptococcal meningitis if you or your child fall into one of the risk groups for bacterial meningitis. People who have a compromised immune system from the HIV virus, those who work with animals on a daily basis and people who live in a large community setting (such as college) have a higher risk of developing the potentially deadly bacterial infection. Ask your doctor about immunizations usually reserved for high-risk individuals.

• 3

  Practice proper hygiene to prevent both viral and bacterial meningitis. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an antibacterial gel if water is unavailable. Refrain from sharing personal items such as lip balms, toothbrushes, face cloths and eating utensils.

• 4

  Treat close family members with antibiotics if a member of the family has been diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis and the rest of the family has not been properly immunized. A preventive round of medication can help limit the spread of the disease.

• 5

  Report diagnosed cases of bacterial meningitis to schools and other health authorities. Reporting helps officials track the disease and implement prevention plans in your local area.