A nurse is caring for an infant diagnosed with meningitis. The parent of the infant asks how they can prevent the infection from being spread to their other children who are 2 and 4-years of age. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. While handwashing is important, it alone may not prevent the spread of meningitis. B. Both children, not just the 2-year-old, should avoid contact with the infected infant. C. Meningitis, especially bacterial forms, can be contagious, and close contact should be minimized to reduce the risk of transmission. D. Meningitis can be highly transmissible, especially in young children, through respiratory droplets and close contact.