Vaccination can help provide the best protection against meningococcal meningitis. But there are also some simple tips that make sense for protecting you as well:

• Wash your hands with warm, soapy water before eating, after using the bathroom, and when they are dirty
  
  
• Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing—and then wash your hands
  
  
• Don't share utensils, cups, straws, etc—which can carry saliva or mucus containing dangerous bacteria
  
  
• Don't smoke, and avoid smoky areas
  
  
• Eat well and get plenty of sleep to stay healthy
  
  
• Tell family and friends to get vaccinated

Remember, what you do now can make a world of difference later—to you, your family, and your community.