The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating a “major ongoing outbreak” of a rare disease in Florida
In a press release, the CDC said Wednesday that meningococcus spread among gay men, including those with HIV, in the Florida outbreak.
“Vaccinating against meningococcal disease is the best way to prevent this serious disease, which can quickly be fatal,” Jose R. Romero, head of the CDC’s immunization and respiratory diseases division, said in a statement. . “Because of the outbreak in Florida,” he added, “and the number of Pride events being held across the state over the next few weeks, it’s important” that gay men get vaccinated.
According to the agency, so far at least 24 cases and 6 deaths among gay men have been reported.
“People can find a meningococcal vaccine by contacting their doctor, pharmacy, community health center or local health department,” the press release said. “Insurance providers should pay for meningococcal vaccination for those who are recommended during an outbreak. In Florida, anyone can get a MenACWY vaccine at no cost at any county health department during the outbreak.”
The Florida Department of Health first issued an alert about an outbreak in Leon County a few months ago.
A Leon County official said at the time that the agency “works to investigate these cases and to ensure that people who have come into close contact with patients receive antibiotics as a precautionary measure against infection.”
Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, which can cause an infection in the bloodstream. It is also responsible for meningitis, an infection of the lining of the brain or spinal cord.
“Meningococcal disease can affect anyone and can be fatal,” the CDC said in a statement.
“Seek medical attention immediately if you have symptoms of meningococcal disease,” the federal health agency said. “Symptoms may appear suddenly and include high fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea / vomiting or a dark purple rash. Symptoms may first appear as a flu-like illness, but usually get worse very quickly.”
The disease can be spread by sharing “saliva or spit,” the agency said, adding that close or long contact, such as kissing or being close to someone who is coughing, is needed to spread these bacteria. .
Despite treatment, between 10 and 15 out of every 100 people die from the disease, according to the agency. Up to 20 percent of survivors may have long-term disabilities, such as limb loss, deafness, brain damage, and problems with the central nervous system.
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Jack Phillips is a New York-based breaking news reporter for The Epoch Times.