Meningococcal Disease Outbreak Declared by Virginia Department of Health
The Virginia Department of Health has declared a statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease, with 27 cases reported since June 2022. The disease, caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis type Y, can lead to serious illnesses such as meningitis and septicemia. Symptoms initially resemble the flu but can worsen over time. Prompt medical attention is crucial, and the department recommends practicing good hygiene and ensuring adolescents and teens are vaccinated. The strain associated with the outbreak is circulating more widely in the U.S., but the risk to Virginia's population remains low.