Florida State is currently experiencing "one of the worst outbreaks of meningococcal disease" and it's mainly impacting gay and bi men. So far, twenty-four cases and six deaths among this demographic have been reported.
The two most common meningococcal infections include meningitis and bloodstream infection. Additionally, there are three serogroups of meningococcal bacteria that most commonly cause the disease in the U.S.– groups B, C, and Y.
The CDC issued a statement last week describing the specifics of the outbreak.
"There is a large, ongoing outbreak of serogroup C meningococcal disease in Florida," the statement began.
"Recent data show that about half of the cases associated with this outbreak are among Hispanic men. This outbreak is mostly affecting people who live in Florida, but has also affected some people who have traveled to Florida," the statement continued.
To combat the outbreak, the CDC is encouraging gay and bi men to get a MenACWY vaccine. This meningococcal conjugate vaccine protects against all serogroup bacterias.
José R. Romero, Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, described how vaccination is essential for protecting this demographic during Pride month.
"Because of the outbreak in Florida and the number of Pride events being held across the state in coming weeks, it is important that gay and bi men who live in Florida get vaccinated," Romero said.
Additionally, there is also an "unrelated serogroup B meningococcal disease cluster among college and university students" that has been recently reported in Leon Country, Florida.
For this separate outbreak, the CDC recommends that all Leon County college and university undergraduate students, students who live on-campus, and students who participate in Greek life obtain a MenB vaccine series.
Until then, officials encourage people to be on high alert for meningococcal disease symptoms.
They can appear without warning and rapidly worsen– including high fevers, headaches, neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting, and dark purple rashes. Moreover, be wary of intimate contact.
"People spread meningococcal bacteria to others by sharing respiratory and throat secretions (saliva or spit). Generally, it takes close or lengthy contact such as kissing or being near someone coughing to spread these bacteria," the CDC said.
And, if you believe you are experiencing any symptoms, seek medical help as soon as possible.
"Meningococcal disease can affect anyone and can be deadly," the CDC underscored.
If you or someone you know is in need of a vaccination, you can contact your local doctor's office, community health center, or pharmacy.
"Insurance providers should pay for meningococcal vaccination for those whom it is recommended for during an outbreak," the CDC stated.
For more information on the outbreak, visit the CDC's complete press release linked here.
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