Meningococcal Disease
There is a large, ongoing outbreak of meningococcal disease in Florida, primarily among gay and bisexual men. Vaccines offer the best protection during the outbreak.
En Español: Enfermedad meningocócica en la Florida, 2021-23
Who Should Get Vaccinated
Meningococcal disease refers to any illness caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. These illnesses are often severe, can be deadly, and include infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and bloodstream. Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best protection against meningococcal disease.
Receiving complement inhibitors such as eculizumab (Soliris®) or ravulizumab (Ultomiris™) increases your risk for meningococcal disease. Even if you received meningococcal vaccines, you could still get meningococcal disease. Learn more about this risk factor.
In 2020, CDC reported multiple cases of β-lactamase-producing N. meningitidis serogroup Y in the United States, including eleven cases also resistant to ciprofloxacin. CDC has information for healthcare providers and public health staff to consider regarding treatment, prophylaxis, and surveillance activities based on these findings.