The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health warning about the outbreak of meningococcal disease in Florida, which mainly affects gay and bisexual men. In response to the outbreak, the CDC took the step of advising gay men in the state to get vaccinated, especially if they have HIV. They also recommend that gay men get a booster vaccine if they had the vaccine more than five years ago. “In response to an ongoing outbreak of meningococcal disease in Florida, state health authorities are recommending that all gay and bisexual men living in the state be vaccinated with a dose of MenACWY vaccine to help protect against cancer. “Florida health officials are also emphasizing the importance of regular meningococcal vaccination for people living with HIV. For the best protection, people with HIV should make sure that they have received the main MenACWY 2-line vaccine and that they are up to date with booster doses. He says the epidemic mainly affects people living in Florida, “but it has also affected some people who have traveled to Florida. The two most common types of meningococcal infections are meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and infection of the bloodstream, both of which can quickly become fatal. If you are likely to travel to Florida, talk to your healthcare provider about your vaccination at least two weeks before visiting the state. The most common symptoms of meningococcal disease are fever, headache and stiff neck. This can sometimes be accompanied by vomiting, photophobia (when your eyes are particularly sensitive to light) and mental confusion. Florida is experiencing an outbreak of #meningococcal disease mainly among gay and bisexual men, including those living with HIV. FL health officials recommend the MenACWY vaccination for all gay and bisexual men except those with #HIV. Learn more: pic.twitter.com/IYY1KTt78A – CDC (@CDCgov) April 7, 2022 According to ABC 27 News, the outbreak so far includes three confirmed cases in Leon County, according to the local Ministry of Health. “We have three confirmed cases of Tallahassee between the ages of 18 and 22. “DOH Leon continues to emphasize that vaccination is the best way to protect against this disease and that the Department offers vaccines against meningococcal disease,” said a DOH spokesman.
