Prevention of Meningitis

Many types of meningitis can be prevented, mostly through vaccines and good hygiene.

Vaccines

• Hib vaccine: part of routine infant immunisation in India
• Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV): protects against a leading bacterial cause
• Meningococcal vaccine: advised for travellers to high-risk areas such as the Hajj, hostel students, people without a spleen and some other groups
• MMR or MR vaccine: prevents measles and mumps, which can cause viral meningitis
• BCG: given at birth in India and helps protect young children from severe TB, including TB meningitis

Check the child's immunisation card and ask the doctor about missed doses.

Preventive medicine after contact

Close contacts of someone with meningococcal meningitis, such as household members, may be given antibiotics. Contact a doctor or the hospital at once.

Everyday steps

• Wash hands often and cover coughs and sneezes
• Avoid sharing cups, utensils, lip balm and cigarettes
• Keep rooms aired and avoid overcrowding
• Treat ear, sinus and throat infections early
• Stay away from others when ill

Reduce TB risk

Treat TB cases fully, test close contacts and ensure good nutrition.

Safe food and water

Use pasteurised milk and clean water.

Ayurvedic view

Traditional health habits such as clean surroundings and good sleep support general health. They are not a substitute for vaccines.

Key point

Vaccines and quick care for any warning signs are the best protection.

Remember

Keep a record of vaccines given and ask your doctor about any that are due, especially before travel or hostel life.