Can I get meningitis from sex?

Dear Ben

Last summer I got meningitis. I got to the ER in time to stop it, but I got meds and it's been a year now and I've been fine. There was one question that I didn't ask the doctor – can you get meningitis from sex? Not that I've been sexual but I've kissed and played. I know that you can catch it from drinking the same drink with your friends and I've done that too. Please help me!!

Alek, 12


There are a lot of myths surrounding meningitis. But the truth is that you cannot get meningitis from sex.

Meningitis is caused by a bacteria or a group of viruses called enteroviruses, which are common in the summer months. They are spread through direct contact with bodily fluids like mucus or saliva.

This means you can catch meningitis from close personal contact with someone, such as sharing the same toothbrush or utensils, but they also have to be ill with meningitis before you can catch the disease.

Chances are if they have got meningitis already they’ll be felling so ill that kissing and anything vaguely sexual will be the last thing on their minds!

Read the rest of teh advice on Children First for Health