It is believed to be the deadliest outbreak in US history, according to US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Florida’s Department of Health are investigating one of the “worst outbreaks of meningococcal disease among gay and bisexual men in US history,”We are asking citizens to get immunized.
According to a Wednesday statement, at least 27 people have died from the disease and 6 more were diagnosed by the CDC. Six deaths were recorded and 24 cases of infection. “men who have sex with men”Both HIV positive people and HIV negative persons.
Meningococcal disease includes meningitis – an infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord – as well as bloodstream infections, both of which can quickly become fatal. Spreading bacteria can occur through the sharing of respiratory or throat secretions like saliva and spit. It usually takes a prolonged exposure for it to spread. Kissing someone coughing is a sign of infection.
“Meningococcal disease can affect anyone and can be deadly,” warned the CDC, noting that there are three serogroups of meningococcal bacteria that cause the most cases in the United States – B, C, and Y.
According to the agency the cause of the epidemic in Florida is the Serogroup-C bacteria. It was detected among gay and bisexual men, as well as other males who have had sexual relations with them. Hispanic men were the majority of those who reported half the cases. These groups were urged by the CDC to receive the MenACWY vaccination if they are planning to visit Florida.
Unrelatedly, another outbreak was also caused by Serogroup B bacteria. It was discovered in three Florida college students. Health officials recommend that all students who live on campus and are involved in fraternities or sororities get the MenB series.
Meningococcal diseases can cause high fevers, stiff necks, vomiting, nausea, and dark purple rash. The CDC warned that although the illness can initially appear like a flu, it usually worsens faster.
José Romero, the director at the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, insists that “Getting vaccinated against meningococcal disease is the best way to prevent this serious illness, which can quickly become deadly.”
“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,” Romero urged.
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