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How is bacterial meningitis spread?
Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as diseases
like the common cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by
simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been. The germs live
naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live for long outside
the body. They are spread when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, sharing
drinking containers, utensils, or cigarettes).
The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. Instead, most people become
carriers of the germ for days, weeks, or even months. The bacteria rarely overcome
the body’s immune system and cause meningitis or another serious illness.
How can bacterial meningitis be prevented?
Do not share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes. Limit the number of
persons you kiss.
While there are vaccines for some other strains of bacterial meningitis, they are used
only in special circumstances. These include when there is a disease outbreak in a
community or for people traveling to a country where there is a high risk of getting
the disease. Also, a vaccine is recommended by some groups for college students,
particularly freshmen living in dorms or residence halls. The vaccine is safe and
effective (85–90 percent). It can cause mild side effects, such as redness and pain at
the injection site lasting up to two days. Immunity develops within seven to ten
days after the vaccine is given and lasts for up to five years.
What should you do if you think you or a friend might have bacterial meningitis?
You should seek prompt medical attention.
Where can you get more information?
Your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your local or regional health
department office are excellent sources for information on all communicable
diseases. You may also call your local health department or Regional Department
of State Health Services office to ask about a meningococcal vaccine. Additional
information may also be found at the Web sites for the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov, and the Department of State Health Services,
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