Why some people get meningitis is not known. The disease occurs more often in the winter and spring than in other seasons When people live close together there is easy opportunity for the bacteria to spread from one person to another. If one person becomes sick, or if there is a healthy carrier in the group, other people may get the bacteria in their noses and throats and some may become ill, usually within two to ten days after exposure. Often a skin rash of tiny bright red spots appears. Close contact means using the same eating utensils or drinking from the same bottle or glass, sharing cigarettes, and kissing.
Vaccination is the best way to protect against some forms of meningococcal meningitis.
The vaccine for meningococcal meningitis is an injectable, inactivated-bacteria vaccine. If you have had close contact with the person with meningitis, see a practitioner at the Health Center or your personal physician for preventive treatment immediately. Roommates, boyfriends, and girlfriends who have had close physical contact with the sick person should receive preventive treatment. You do not need treatment if you have had only casual contact such as a classmate or working in the same department or building. If you are treated, take all the medication as prescribed by your doctor.