Meningococcal Disease Spikes Among Gay and Bi Men in Florida
issued a health warning: get vaccinated. And since the outbreak is primarily affecting sexually active gay and bi men in the area, they are especially encouraging this population to do so.Meningococcal disease is caused by a bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis and is preventable and treatable, says the CDC, however, it can quickly become deadly — so prevention and early detection and treatment are key.
The warning also stated that getting vaccinated is the best way to protect against meningococcal disease.According to the CDC, the two most common types of meningococcal infections are meningitis (an infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord,) and bloodstream infection, both of which can end up fatal if untreated.
Initially, the disease can cause flu-like symptoms which then rapidly worsen. These include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, confusion and rash.
Though it’s not officially considered an STI, it is quickly and easily spread through ‘close contact” due to it being primary transmitted via the mouth, nose, and throat.
