The Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shared that last week seven LGBTQ individuals passed away from meningococcal disease, with another 44 diagnosed cases of people currently in treatment. 13 of those cases are here in Orlando.
College dorm residents are also at high risk for the disease.
The FDC described the situation as “…one of the worst outbreaks of meningococcal disease among gay and bisexual men in U.S. history.” And it’s no coincidence that it’s happening during Pride Month.
Meningococcal disease is a serious illness caused by bacteria that can cause an infection in your brain and spinal cord, and cause blood infections. One out of every seven people who get the disease dies. It is spread from person-to-person contact through coughing or coming in close or lengthy contact with someone who is sick or carries the bacteria; and that includes kissing, sharing drinks, or living together.
Signs of infection include a rash of pinprick spots or larger bruise-like areas, a fever, headache, neck stiffness, discomfort while looking at bright light, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, and feeling very, very sick.
The good news is, you can protect yourself against a more serious infection by getting vaccinated, which you can do at your doctor’s office, a pharmacy, or local health department, for free during the outbreak.
