Vaccination is the most important line of defense against the risks of contracting meningococcal disease1 —especially since it may be hard for your child to avoid all activities where respiratory secretions, throat secretions, or saliva is exchanged. But there are additional steps your child can take that may help prevent illness and protect their overall health:
- Avoid sharing knives, forks, glasses, straws, food, lipstick, and other items that touch the mouth—they can all spread meningococcal bacteria1,2
- Cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing
- Wash hands frequently with warm water and soap before putting food in their mouth––and after they cough, sneeze, or use the bathroom
- Eat healthy foods and avoid stress.3
- Avoid smoking or being exposed to smoke
- Spread the word about vaccination to family and friends who may be at risk
