5 Dead In Statewide Meningococcal Disease Outbreak: Officials

RICHMOND, VA — Virginia health officials this week announced a statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease after five people died from complications of the rare but serious illness.

According to a news release from the Virginia Department of Health, 27 cases of the illness caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis type Y have been reported in eastern, central, and southwest Virginia since June 2022 — more than three times the number of expected cases, officials said.

Health officials said most cases were reported in eastern Virginia, where a regional outbreak was announced in September 2022.

Five people died of complications from the disease, officials said.

Meningococcal disease is often severe and includes infections of the lining of the brain, spinal cord and bloodstream, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People spread the bacteria to others by sharing respiratory and throat secretions like saliva or spit. Generally, it takes close and lengthy contact — like coughing or kissing — to spread the bacteria, according to the CDC.

The most common symptoms include headache, fever and stiff neck. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting and confusion.

The disease is usually treatable with a number of antibiotics, according to the CDC. It is important treatment starts as soon as possible.

The Virginia Department of Health recommends the following tips to protect yourself from the disease:

• Don’t share personal items like vapes, lipsticks or toothbrushes.
• Practice good hand hygiene.
• Do not delay seeking care if you experience symptoms of meningococcal disease.
• Ensure adolescents and teenagers receive the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY) on schedule at 11 or 12 years of age and then a booster dose at 15-16 years of age.
• Speak to your healthcare provider if you are at increased risk for meningococcal disease to ensure you are up to date on the MenACWY vaccine.

The latest information on the outbreak is available on the department's meningococcal disease outbreak response website.