Risk factors of meningitis B and ways to prevent them
Meningitis is an infection caused by bacteria that affects the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by a number of different bacteria and may show symptoms like high fever, seizures, and headaches. Certain factors can increase one’s risk of developing this condition. Understanding these factors can help one protect themselves from contracting the disease. Let’s take a look at the risk factors prevention methods of meningitis B.
Risk factors of meningitis B
These factors can increase a person’s risk of developing the condition.
- Age
Children under the age of 20 are more susceptible to contracting meningitis B.
People who have not been vaccinated in their childhood could also pose a greater risk of the disease. Pregnancy
Pregnant women are at a greater risk of developing an infection called listeriosis. This infection may also lead to the contraction of meningitis B. Listeriosis also increases the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth. A weak immune system
People with a compromised immune system due to chronic diseases such as AIDS, diabetes, and heart disease and those without a spleen are easily affected by the bacteria. Living in a community
People who live in small shared spaces like dormitories, military bases, and child care centers are at a greater risk of developing the condition.
Pregnant women are at a greater risk of developing an infection called listeriosis. This infection may also lead to the contraction of meningitis B. Listeriosis also increases the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth.
People with a compromised immune system due to chronic diseases such as AIDS, diabetes, and heart disease and those without a spleen are easily affected by the bacteria.
People who live in small shared spaces like dormitories, military bases, and child care centers are at a greater risk of developing the condition.
This is because the bacteria is spread through the respiratory system and transmissions are easier through bigger groups of people.
Prevention of meningitis B
Here are some ways in which one can prevent the contraction of meningitis B.
- Practicing good hygiene
Wearing a mark when sick, bathing daily, and keeping your surroundings clean can help prevent the spread of the disease. One must also thoroughly wash hands before and after meals. - Maintaining good health
Eating healthy meals that include green vegetables, fresh fruit, lean meat, drinking plenty of clean water, and exercising regularly are different ways to strengthen their immune system. - Refrain from sharing personal belongings
Sharing personal things like toothbrushes, drinks, utensils, and makeup can transmit the bacteria present on the object to an individual. Therefore, one must always refrain from sharing any personal belongings with others.
- Vaccinations
There are various vaccines available for children as well as adults to help prevent the disease. They are usually given to children exposed to the disease or have weak immune systems due to chronic conditions like AIDS and sickle cell anemia.
- Pregnant women must handle food with care
Pregnant women should ensure that they always cook meat completely. This will include processed meat like hot dogs and lunch meats. Also, they must only consume cheese made of pasteurized milk.
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