Meningitis Outbreak 2015 News Update: 5 Prevention Tips to Protect From Disease

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Another case of meningitis has been confirmed in Illinois. According to Fox News, it is the seventh confirmed diagnosis in the state, and the sixth in the city of Chicago.

As of late, one person has died from the disease, while another has been hospitalized. Meanwhile, two other meningitis patients have been sent to a rehabilitation facility.

Julie Morita, Chicago Department of Public Health commissioner, offered some words of advise to the public in a statement on the Chicago Tribune:

"Even though the number of cases is small, due to the severity of disease, we must continue our intensive, focused response," she said.

HNGN reports that the health department is encouraging people to get the vaccination for meningitis. 

"We know that vaccination is the best tool to end this outbreak and we continue to partner with local community advocates and health care providers to find and vaccinate our most vulnerable residents," said Morita.

So far, over 11,000 vaccines have been distributed to pharmacies and other providers throughout Chicago. In addition, over 5,100 residents have been vaccinated directly.

The disease is most prevalent among African-American gay men and the bisexual community, adds HNGN. A list of vaccination centers in the city can be found here.

Other prevention tips to help protect against Meningitis are listed below:

#1: Practice Good Hygiene

Mayo Clinic warns against sharing drinks, food, or anything else that has been in or around the mouth, like lip balm or toothbrushes.

#2: Maintain Healthy Habits

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends maintaining a healthy lifestyle, like staying away from cigarettes or cigarette smoke. The agency further suggests getting plenty of rest and avoiding sick people.

#3: Wash Your Hands

Web MD reminds people to wash their hands, especially after being in close proximity to someone with meningitis. Mayo Clinic explains that keeping the hands clean can protect against infectious agents. 

Teach children in particular to wash their hands before eating and after using the toilet or petting furry animals.

#4: Cover Your Mouth

Mayo Clinic suggests covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, epecially for those who have been diagnosed with meningitis, since it can be transferred through bodily fluids. 

#5: Get the Complete Recommended Vaccine Schedule

The CDC says that vaccination is the most effective way to protect against meningitis. There are three vaccines to treat the three different bacteria responsible for the disease which are: Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus), Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).