CDC investigating ‘large, ongoing’ outbreak of meningococcal disease in Florida

The Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention (CDC) is investigating “one of many worst outbreaks of meningococcal illness amongst homosexual and bisexual males in U.S. historical past” after a minimum of 24 circumstances and 6 deaths had been reported in Florida.

In a Wednesday press launch, the CDC described a serogroup C meningococcal outbreak primarily spreading amongst homosexual, bisexual and different males who’ve intercourse with males, together with these residing with HIV. About half of the circumstances had been reported amongst Hispanic males. A serogroup is a gaggle of micro organism containing a typical antigen.

The CDC, which is investigating the outbreak together with the Florida Division of Well being, can also be trying right into a separate serogroup B meningococcal outbreak amongst faculty college students in Leon County, Fla.

The Florida well being division first issued an alert concerning the Leon County outbreak in April.

Meningococcal illness is brought on by the micro organism Neisseria meningitidis. It will probably trigger a lethal bloodstream an infection or meningitis, an an infection of the liner of the mind or spinal twine.

The micro organism is unfold by shut contact, similar to coughing or kissing. The commonest signs from the illness are a fever, headache or a purple rash.

The CDC is encouraging homosexual and bisexual males in Florida to get the meningococcal vaccine (or MenACWY), which is freed from cost by county sources in Florida.

José Romero, the director on the Nationwide Heart for Immunization and Respiratory Illnesses, stated getting vaccinated “is one of the best ways to stop this severe sickness, which may rapidly change into lethal.”

“Due to the outbreak in Florida, and the variety of Pleasure occasions being held throughout the state in coming weeks, it’s vital that homosexual and bisexual males who reside in Florida get vaccinated,” Romero stated in an announcement.

“These touring to Florida discuss to their healthcare supplier about getting a MenACWY vaccine,” he added.