Florida meningococcal outbreak among gay and bisexual men is one of worst in US history: CDC

he Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating one of the worst meningococcal outbreaks among gay and bisexual men in U.S. history, according to a recent press release.

"Getting vaccinated against meningococcal disease is the best way to prevent this serious illness, which can quickly become deadly," said Dr. José R. Romero, director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases.

"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."  

The agency has reported at least 24 cases and 6 deaths among gay and bisexual men related to this disease, with approximately half of the outbreak cases among Hispanic men.

The cases related to the current outbreak are most among those who live in Florida but also affected some who traveled to the state0

The CDC recommends the MenACWY vaccine, which protects against meningococcal disease caused by four strains of the meningococcal bacteria – A, C, W and Y.

The agency noted all HIV patients should be routinely immunized with the MenACWY vaccine.

The outbreak is caused by serotype C, but there are six serotypes that cause the disease worldwide, although mainly serotypes B, C and Y cause most of meningococcal cases in the United States. .

More at: https://www.foxnews.com/health/florida-meningococcal-outbreak-gay-bisexual-men-one-of-worst-us-history-cdc