Contact:
Wendi Jackson
386-281-6423

Chd64pio@flhealth.gov

Tallahassee, Fla. - The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) is responding to an outbreak of
meningococcal disease in Florida. However, it can be prevented and treated. Getting
vaccinated is the best way to protect against meningococcal disease.

Thus far, the number of cases identified in 2022 surpasses the 5-year average of
meningococcal disease cases in Florida. FDOH epidemiologists are investigating each case as
well as contacting people with potential or direct exposure to known cases to provide them with
information and treatment options.

The following groups should consider vaccination with a meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY)
vaccine during this outbreak:
• College and university students;
• Immunocompromised individuals;
• People living with HIV;
• Men who have sex with men;
• People in any groups listed above who received their MenACWY vaccine more than 5
years ago.

Find meningococcal vaccines, including the MenACWY vaccine, by contacting a health care
provider, county health department, or pharmacy. FDOH Volusia offers meningococcal
vaccines. For more information, visit the FDOH Volusia website or call 386-274-0500.

This is a serious disease caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. Fortunately, these
bacteria are not as contagious as germs that cause the common cold or flu. People do not catch
the bacteria through casual contact or by breathing air where someone with meningococcal
disease has been. It requires close contact over a period of time, or direct contact such as
kissing or sharing drinks.

Early symptoms of the disease include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, light
sensitivity, confusion, and rash. Anyone who has been exposed or develops symptoms should
be evaluated by a health care provider immediately. This is a rare but potentially devastating
disease.

For more information about meningococcal disease, please visit the Ceenters for Disease Control and Prevention website or the FDOH website

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About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyVolusia or @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.