Florida reports 68 meningococcal disease cases in 2022, Well above previous five year average

The Florida Department of Health reported 68 meningococcal disease cases in 17 counties in 2022, well above the previous five year average of 21.

Neisseria meningitidis
Image/CDC

In fact, the last time meningococcal cases exceeded 65 cases in a year was 2007 at 67 cases reported in 25 counties.

In 2022, the meningococcal disease rate was highest among age 19-34 years at 0.84 cases per 100,000
population.

Among reported cases, 99% of reported cases were seen in the emergency department and 94% of reported cases were hospitalized. Additionally, 15 deaths were identified as being associated to meningococcal disease.

81% of reported cases were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status. The best protection against meningococcal disease is keeping up-to-date with recommended vaccines.

There are currently two types of meningococcal vaccines available in the United States: Meningococcal conjugate or MenACWY vaccines and Serogroup B meningococcal or MenB vaccines. Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) recommends meningococcal disease vaccination for all preteens and teens as well as other children and adults who are at increased risk of meningococcal disease.

According to the CDC, about 10 to 15 in 100 people with meningococcal disease will die. Up to 1 in 5 survivors will have long-term disabilities which may include: loss of limb/s, deafness, nervous system problems, brain damage.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *