The Florida Department of Health and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently studying “one of the worst outbreaks of meningococcal disease among gay and bisexual men in U.S. history,” the CDC announced on Wednesday.
On Thursday, the CDC reported that throughout the inquiry period, Florida had witnessed 26 cases and seven fatalities related to meningococcal illness.
Of those, males who had intercourse with men accounted for 24 cases and six deaths.
Bloodstream infections and meningitis, an infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord, are all symptoms of meningococcal illness.
Sharing respiratory or throat secretions, including saliva or spit, can transmit germs.
To spread the bacteria, it usually requires prolonged or close contact, such as kissing or being close to someone who is coughing.
According to the CDC, symptoms can include a dark purple rash, high fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, or vomiting.
They can first look like the flu, but they usually worsen very quickly. If someone exhibits these signs, they should see a doctor right away.
Gay, bisexual, and other males who have sex with men are advised by the CDC to receive the meningococcal vaccine if they reside in Florida or to speak with their doctor if they are visiting the state.
Health experts are highlighting the value of routine immunization for people who live with HIV.
According to the CDC, the vaccination is available at clinics, drug stores, community health centres, and municipal health departments
Those for whom the vaccine is advised during an outbreak should have insurance to cover the expense. During the outbreak, county health offices in Florida are offering the vaccine to everyone for free.
The infection affecting men who engage in intercourse with men is brought on by serogroup C, according to the CDC. In one county, there is a separate serogroup B cluster among college and university students.
The CDC has been monitoring an unusual monkeypox outbreak in nations where the disease is not endemic, including the United States. This meningococcal disease outbreak update coincides with that.
Facts on Meningococcal disease
The bacterium Neisseria meningitidis is the source of meningococcal illness, often known as invasive meningococcal disease or IMD.
The meninges, a delicate sheath of tissue covering the brain and spinal cord, are susceptible to infection by Neisseria meningitidis.
The blood may become infected as a result. In 50% of cases, meningococcal disease results in death if untreated.
Even with early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment, it still results in death in 10 to 15 percent of cases.
Permanent brain injury, hearing loss, kidney failure, arm or limb loss, or ongoing nervous system issues can happen to survivors.
Symptoms of The Meningococcal Disease
1. High fever
2. Headache
3. Vomiting
4. Stiff neck
5. Rash
6. Sensitivity to light
7. Confusion
8. Sleepiness
