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By Mayo Clinic staffThere's no easy prevention for most cases of myocarditis. The risk is rare, but you can take some steps to decrease your risk and the risk to others:
- Avoid people who have a viral or flu-like illness until they have recovered. If you're sick with viral symptoms, try to avoid exposing others.
- Follow good hygiene. Regular hand washing is a good way to help prevent spreading illness.
- Avoid risky behaviors. To minimize your likelihood of contracting an HIV-related myocardial infection, practice safe sex and don't use illicit drugs.
- Dress sensibly for the outdoors. If you spend time in tick-infested areas, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to cover as much of your skin as possible. Apply tick or insect repellents that contain DEET.
- Get your immunizations. Stay up to date on the recommended immunizations, including those that protect against rubella and influenza, which can cause myocarditis.