Download Guide to Preventing the spread of meningitis

GUIDE TO PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF MENINGITIS
Alpha Phi International Fraternity
Diagnose
Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges. The meninges are the three membranes that
cover the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can occur when fluid surrounding the meninges
becomes infected. The most common causes of meningitis are viral and bacterial infections.
Anyone with symptoms should follow the instructions of the university health center and their
physician.
Common bacteria or viruses that can cause meningitis can spread through coughing, sneezing,
kissing, or sharing eating utensils, or a toothbrush.
Prevent additional Outbreaks
Good personal hygiene can help prevent the spread of disease. A person with bacterial
meningitis can remain contagious for about 24 hours after starting antibiotics. It is a good idea
to ask all in-house collegians to:
 Speak to the university health center and their physician if they have been in close
contact with the infected person. It is standard procedure for all those that have been in
close contact to receive antibiotics.
 Cover coughs and sneezes. The bacteria reside in droplets of fluid in the throat and
nose and can fly out when you cough or sneeze. When possible, use a tissue to cover
the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. If one is not available, use the crook
of the elbow.
 Wash hands often.
 Don’t share food, glasses, water bottles or eating utensils.
 Don’t share towels.
 Don’t share lip gloss or lipstick.
 Sanitize the house. Bacteria and viruses love to lurk on items touched every day. Here
are some hot spots for germs:
o Desks
o Dining Tables
o Floors
o Sinks
o Toilets
o Doorknobs
If you have any questions, please contact Alpha Phi’s Housing Department
at [email protected].
Updated: March, 2017