CDC says there’s a meningococcal disease outbreak amongst gay and bisexual men in Florida
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned Florida’s LGBTQ+ community about a meningococcal disease outbreak.
On 7 April, the organisation revealed that the wave has been seen primarily in “gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, including those living with HIV.” Alongside Florida natives, some individuals who have travelled to the state have also been affected.
Health officials have since urged queer men and people living with HIV to get the MenACWY vaccination in an official statement. “In response to an ongoing outbreak of meningococcal disease in Florida, state health officials are recommending all gay and bisexual men living in the state get vaccinated with one dose of MenACWY vaccine to help protect against meningococcal disease,” they said. “Florida health officials are also emphasising the importance of routine vaccination against meningococcal disease for people with HIV.
For the best protection, people with HIV should make sure they have gotten their 2-dose primary series of a MenACWY vaccine and are up to date with booster dose.” The CDC also recommended that individuals planning to travel to the state “talk to their healthcare provider” and consider getting vaccinated.
