Meningococcal disease rates have been declining in Florida with more than 150 cases reported annually 25 years ago to 27 cases reported in 2021, as vaccination rates have increased. Rates of disease have been
stable over the last 5 years with an average of about 21 cases occurring annually.
In a follow-up on the meningococcal disease situation in Florida this year, through September 11, 52 meningococcal disease cases have been reported in 17 counties. Orange and Miami-Dade counties have reported the most with 14 and 7 cases, respectively.
In 2022, 84% of reported cases were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status.
In 2022, the meningococcal disease rate was highest among age 19-34 years at 0.61 cases per 100,000
population.
In 2022, among reported cases, 98% of reported cases were seen in the emergency department and 92% of reported cases were hospitalized. Additionally, 12 deaths were identified as being associated to meningococcal disease.
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.
Meningococcal disease can often be severe leading to inpatient hospitalization and sometimes death. 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.
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