NBC’s Elisha Fieldstadt reports that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a warning to gay and bisexual men in Florida. The notice advises them to get vaccinated against meningococcal disease.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and shouldn’t be considered medical advice. Consult with your doctor before making any changes in lifestyle or treatment.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an outbreak of meningococcal disease has been reported in Florida that is most prevalent among “gay and bisexual men” and those infected with HIV.
As a consequence, the CDC is advising gay and bisexual men to obtain the MenACWY vaccine if they reside in the state of Florida.
In addition, the CDC urges travelers to Florida to discuss vaccination with their physicians.
This weekend, the CDC posted the following on their website:
There is a large, ongoing outbreak of meningococcal disease in Florida, primarily among gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men, including those living with HIV. There have also been cases reported in the state over the last few months, including multiple cases in college students. At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that the cases among college students are related to the larger outbreak.
Neisseria meningitidis causes meningococcal disease, which can be avoided and managed. The CDC’s advisory stated that vaccination is the “best way to protect” oneself from meningococcal disease.
Two prevalent forms of meningococcal infections are meningitis and bloodstream infection, both of which can be deadly.
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