The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed in a recent press release that they are investigating what is believed to be among the worst meningococcal outbreaks amongst bisexual and gay men in U.S. history.
The CDC explained in the Wednesday news release that a serogroup C meningococcal outbreak mostly spreads among gay, bisexual, and other males who engage in sexual activity with other males, including those living with HIV. About half of the cases were reported amongst Hispanic man. A serogroup is a group of germs including a typical antigen.
The CDC stated that there have actually been 26 cases and 7 deaths from meningococcal illness in Florida throughout the examination duration. Amongst those, 24 cases and 6 deaths remained in males who have sexual contact with males.
Here’s what CDC said in the statement:
“In response to this outbreak, CDC is recommending gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men get a meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) if they live in Florida, or talk with their healthcare provider about getting vaccinated if they are traveling to Florida. CDC is also emphasizing the importance of routine MenACWY vaccination for people with HIV.”
The infection can spread through saliva and transmission requires close contact, health authorities stated. Kissing or being in proximity to an infected individual that coughs can trigger an infection.
The State agency is likewise advising vaccines for gay males who prepare to take a trip to Florida. Homosexuals were advised by CDC to get a MenACWY vaccine if they live in Florida or by calling their physician’s office, drug store, community health center, local health department, or their doctor about the vaccination if taking a trip to Florida.
José R. Romero, M.D., Director, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases stated:
“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.”
Meningococcal illness is an unusual, major health problem triggered by a bacteria(Neisseria meningitidis). It can trigger meningitis, which is an infection of the brain and spine, and it can likewise trigger blood infections, according to Minnesota Health Department.
The Health Department included that approximately one out of 7 (10-14 percent) of those who get the illness die.
More details about the meningococcal illness from M.N. Health Department:
Symptoms can include:
- High fever
- Headache
- Very stiff neck
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light
- Vomiting
- Exhaustion
If a person has a blood infection, a rash may also develop.
Early symptoms can easily be mistaken for influenza or other illnesses.
When symptoms start, they come on quickly and the person may get very sick very fast. Contact your health care provider immediately if you have symptoms.
How does meningococcal disease spread?
Meningococcal disease is spread by contact with secretions (saliva or spit) from the nose and throat.
It can be spread through kissing, sharing silverware, drinking directly from the same container, sharing a cigarette or lipstick, and having close social contact (living in the same household).
It is not spread through casual contact, such as being in the same room or touching the same object.
Who is at risk?
In general, the risk of becoming infected with meningococcal disease is low, but anyone can get it. However, some people are at increased risk, such as:
- First year college students who live in residential housing.
- People who have an immune disorder called complement component deficiency or who take Solaris (eculizumab).
- People with a damaged spleen or whose spleen has been removed.
- Lab personnel who work with the meningococcal bacteria.
- People who travel to areas of the world where meningococcal disease is common.
- U.S. military recruits.
- Household and other contacts of a meningococcal case.
H/T : Patriot Nation Press, TheGatewayPundit, Minnesota Health Department