Pneumococcal Meningitis Vaccine
Pneumococcal meningitis vaccinations are currently offered in two varieties. It is advised that individuals with specific medical disorders as well as children ages two and younger receive the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13).
Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) is the second pneumococcal meningitis vaccination. This vaccination is advised by the CDC for:
- Adults over 65
- those with specific medical issues between the ages of 2 and 64
- adults who smoke cigarettes, aged 19 to 64
There are other ways you can prevent bacterial meningitis including:
- washing your hands frequently
- avoiding sharing utensils, food, and glasses with people who have the infection
- taking prescribed antibiotics if exposed to someone with the condition
- being well rested
- covering the nose when sneezing
- avoiding smoking and cigarette smoke
- covering the mouth when coughing
- avoiding being bitten by insects, as they can carry bacteria that cause bacterial meningitis
As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. It will help follow these measures to avoid and prevent bacterial meningitis. Visit your doctor as soon as you notice symptoms of bacterial meningitis.