County Urges Meningococcal Vaccine During Outbreak

SAN BERNARDINO >> San Bernardino County’s Health Officer Dr. Maxwell Ohikhuare is urging people to get the meningococcal vaccine who are at higher risk of contracting the disease. Those in high risk include men who have sex with men, as well as HIV-infected persons. As of Aug. 15, 22 cases of meningococcal disease have been confirmed in an ongoing Southern California outbreak. There are currently no reported cases in San Bernardino County. In response to this ongoing outbreak, the California Department of Public Health Immunization Branch has granted temporary approval to all local health departments to use state-funded vaccines for outbreak control efforts. This vaccine protects against the dominant strain of disease identified in this outbreak. Meningococcal vaccine is available at no cost to all county residents who desire to be vaccinated, regardless of their insurance status or risk factors. Currently, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends HIV-infected persons should receive two doses of the vaccine and uninfected men should receive one dose. Those who were vaccinated more than five years ago should be revaccinated. Meningococcal disease is a severe bacterial infection that can cause meningitis, bloodstream infections, pneumonia and arthritis. Meningococcal bacteria are transmitted from person to person by respiratory droplets from the nose and throat. Individuals who are in close personal contact with multiple people, regularly visit crowded venues, or use illegal drugs, smoke cigarettes, marijuana or hookahs may be at higher risk of infection. Symptoms of meningococcal disease may include fever, vomiting, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion and rash. If experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical care immediately. Symptoms of meningococcal disease often begin soon after exposure and can be fatal. So far, all cases have been reported in Los Angeles and Orange counties, and most cases have been gay or bisexual men. To date, two patients have died from meningococcal disease associated with this outbreak. County residents who are at risk can make a vaccination appointment at County Public Health clinics by calling 800-722-4777. This vaccine may also be obtained through a private provider. For more information about meningococcal disease and vaccine recommendations, visit the CDPH website or call the Communicable Disease Section (CDS) at 1-800-722-4794.