Meningitis You can catch meningitis from a doorknob Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The disease is highly contagious and is caused by bacteria and viruses, which can easily travel in fluids from an infected person. It’s not just an unprotected sneeze that can spread the disease. It can even be caught if someone comes in contact with a contaminated doorknob, drawer handle or book. While it is generally advisable not to share eating utensils, toothbrushes, and the like, washing hands during the day will further ensure that you rid yourself of any germs with which you might have come in contact. RELATED PROGRAMS Video - Meningitis 101 Transcript

HealthVideo.com © 2008 NBC Digital Health Network, Inc. All Rights Reserved Privacy Policy - Disclaimer - Editorial Policy We subscribe to the HONcode principles. Verify here