You can protect yourself from meningitis.

Meningitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the fluid around the brain and spine.Children, adults over 65, and individuals with a weakened immune system are more likely to contract the disease.There are steps you can take to avoid an infection.Do not share drinks and utensils with other people.Work on building a healthy immune system through eating and exercising.You should also have the vaccine against the disease.

Step 1: Don't forget to wash your hands.

Making personal hygiene a priority is the best way to prevent Meningitis.You should wash your hands throughout the day.You should wash your hands after using the bathroom, before and after eating food, after handling animals, sneezing or coughing, and interacting with a sick person.You should wash your hands for 20 seconds.To keep track of time, hum the "Happy Birthday" song twice.You have to wash your hands.The backs of your hands should not be neglected.You should wash your hands under warm water and dry them with a towel.

Step 2: Don't share drinks, straws, and utensils.

Meningitis can be spread through saliva.Practice basic personal hygiene.Don't share drinks, straws, or utensils with other people.If the person is sick, this is important.

Step 3: When you cough and sneeze, cover your mouth.

It's important to cover your mouth and nose.The amount of germs in the air can be limited by this.If you cough or sneeze frequently, you may want to carry a handkerchief.After sneezing or coughing, wash your hands.

Step 4: Take care of your food while you are pregnant.

You can get listeriosis when you are pregnant.This can affect your baby's health.It is possible to be caused by eating contaminated food.Deli meats and hot dogs should be cooked up to 165 F (74 C).When buying cheese, check the labels.Don't buy cheese made from unpasteurized milk.

Step 5: It's best to learn when you're most at risk.

Babies too young for vaccine are at an increased risk for the disease.People of any age group can get the disease.You are more at risk if you live in a large group.Extra precautions should be taken if you live in a college setting.

Step 6: Check with your doctor about immunizations.

Meningitis can be prevented with certain immunizations.You can check your medical records to see if you received a vaccine.Make an appointment to get a vaccine as soon as possible.Young children are usually recommended for the vaccine.If you have a disease that compromises your immune system, talk to your doctor.He or she may think you would benefit from the vaccine.

Step 7: There are signs and symptoms of an infections.

If left unattended, meningitis can be fatal.If there is a Meningitis outbreak in your area, make sure you watch out for symptoms.Nausea is one of the symptoms.Vomiting.Increased sensitivity to light.There was confusion.The neck is stiff.

Step 8: If you have an infectious disease, seek medical treatment immediately.

Seizures and a coma are symptoms of Meningitis.As soon as symptoms develop, it's important to seek treatment.Meningitis can be fatal without prompt treatment.Symptoms of an infant may be hard to recognize.Babies with a Meningitis may vomit and be slow and inactive.Take your baby to the doctor if you notice any of the symptoms.

Step 9: If you are in close contact with a person with an infectious disease, you should ask about antibiotics.

If you're caring for someone who's been diagnosed with Meningitis, you may want to take antibiotics.If you're living with someone who's at an increased risk of a Meningitis, antibiotics may be recommended.If you live with or care for someone who may develop a Meningitis infection, talk to your doctor about trying antibiotics.

Step 10: You should drink in moderation.

Alcohol lowers the body's immune system, making it harder to fight infections.It's a good idea to not drink most days.In moderation, drink when you do.Moderation is defined as two drinks a day for men and one drink for women.Binge drinking can affect your immune system.In a two hour period, this is drinking five drinks for men and four for women.If that is the case, you should have one or two drinks each day.Do not start if you don't currently drink alcohol.

Step 11: A healthy diet is important.

A healthy diet can boost your immune system.There are many supplements and special diet that are meant to boost immunity, but research on their effectiveness is limited.If you want to get the best results, stick to a basic healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.You can eat fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables.Adding fruits and veggies to your plate is a good idea.There are ways to add fruits and vegetables to a meal.There is a mac and cheese recipe.There are ways to prepare your food in a healthier way.Don't cook your chicken by frying it.Don't use dry, high-fiber beans in a recipe.White bread, pasta, and rice should always be replaced with whole grains.They are more likely to leave you with a healthy immune system.

Step 12: You need to exercise regularly.

Your immune system will benefit from regular physical activity.It is possible to get in some physical activity every day.Discuss lifestyle changes with a doctor if you've been sedentary for a long time.You will be more likely to stick to it if you choose a form of physical activity you like.Say you don't like running.Don't do a daily jog.You can go swimming at the gym a few nights a week.If you have a busy schedule, try to fit your workout in.Walk or bike to work instead of driving.

Step 13: Get plenty of sleep.

A poor sleep schedule can affect your immune system.If you want to boost your immune system, you should prioritize sleep.It's a good idea to stick to a sleep schedule.If you go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, your body will adapt.It will be easier to fall asleep at night and wake up in the morning.A good way to relax is to take a warm shower or read a book at night.The blue light emitted from laptop and phone screens can make it hard to sleep.napping in the afternoon can make it hard to sleep at night.