The condition may be prevented withvaccination, good hygiene, and other preventive measures.
Getting an infection (even ones strongly linked to meningitis) does not mean you will get meningitis.
The same applies to non-infectious causes.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
There are, however, risk factors that place you at increased risk of meningitis.
Recognizing these risk factors help you build an individualized prevention strategy.
The second dose of this vaccine is given six months after the first.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Lifestyle
The infectious organisms that cause meningitis are fairly common in the environment.
They are readily transmitted by coughing, sneezing, kissing, and touching contaminated objects.
Unlike in universities, the rate of meningococcal meningitis in military installations is low due to themandatory vaccinationsof troops.
Treatment
Meningococcal meningitis is treated withantibioticsas soon as the disease is suspected.
Once a person is hospitalized, a broad-spectrum antibiotic is delivered by intravenous (IV) infusion.
IV penicillin may also be used.
A seven-day course is usually sufficient, although severe cases may require up to 21 days of treatment.
People who may have been exposed toN.
Oral antibiotics are recommended for anyone potentially exposed toNeisseria meningitideseven if they have already received the meningococcal vaccine.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
A Word From Verywell
Meningitis has many different causes.
The most serious causes can be prevented with vaccinations, good hygiene, and the avoidance of infection.
If meningitis does occur, either infectious or non-infectious, it is important to recognize the symptoms.
Your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam to look for signs of meningitis.
You may have tests to analyze your blood, urine, or mucus.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Meningococcal disease: prevention.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Meningococcal outbreaks.
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