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Shop NowIn the latest press release from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals they are in the midst of investigating one of the worst meningococcal outbreaks in U.S. history among gay and bisexual men.
The CDC shared that the serogroup C meningococcal outbreak primarily spreads among the gay and bisexual community, including individuals who live with HIV. In this recent outbreak, more than half of the cases reported are among Hispanic men. A serogroup is defined as a group of bacteria that contains a common antigen.
During the investigation period so far, there have been 26 cases and 7 total deaths from the outbreak in Florida, where 24 cases and 6 deaths were men who have had sex with men.
Here’s what CDC said in a statement:
“In response to this outbreak, CDC is recommending gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men get a meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) if they live in Florida, or talk with their healthcare provider about getting vaccinated if they are traveling to Florida. CDC is also emphasizing the importance of routine MenACWY vaccination for people with HIV.”
Transmission of the bacteria requires close contact which spreads through the saliva, according to health officials. Therefore, kissing or being in close proximity to an infected individual that coughs can cause the infection.
The CDC is now recommending men traveling to or residing in Florida to get a MenACWY vaccine by contacting their healthcare provider or doctor’s office.
José R. Romero, M.D., Director, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases said in a statement:
“Getting vaccinated against meningococcal disease is the best way to prevent this serious illness, which can quickly become deadly. Because of the outbreak in Florida, and the number of Pride events being held across the state in coming weeks, it’s important that gay and bisexual men who live in Florida get vaccinated, and those traveling to Florida talk to their healthcare provider about getting a MenACWY vaccine.”
Caused by a bacteria (Neisseria meningitidis), meningococcal disease is incredibly rare and serious, which can lead to meningitis – an infection of the brain, spinal cord, and some times blood – as stated by the Minnesota Health Department.
According to the Health Department, up to 1 out of 7, or 10-14%, of those who get the disease die.
More information about the meningococcal disease from M.N. Health Department:
Symptoms can include:
- High fever
- Headache
- Very stiff neck
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light
- Vomiting
- Exhaustion
If a person has a blood infection, a rash may also develop.
Early symptoms can easily be mistaken for influenza or other illnesses.
When symptoms start, they come on quickly and the person may get very sick very fast. Contact your health care provider immediately if you have symptoms.
How does meningococcal disease spread?
Meningococcal disease is spread by contact with secretions (saliva or spit) from the nose and throat.
It can be spread through kissing, sharing silverware, drinking directly from the same container, sharing a cigarette or lipstick, and having close social contact (living in the same household).
It is not spread through casual contact, such as being in the same room or touching the same object.
Who is at risk?
In general, the risk of becoming infected with meningococcal disease is low, but anyone can get it. However, some people are at increased risk, such as:
- First year college students who live in residential housing.
- People who have an immune disorder called complement component deficiency or who take Solaris (eculizumab).
- People with a damaged spleen or whose spleen has been removed.
- Lab personnel who work with the meningococcal bacteria.
- People who travel to areas of the world where meningococcal disease is common.
- U.S. military recruits.
- Household and other contacts of a meningococcal case.
Sources: TheGatewayPundit, Minnesota Health Department
