Drinks And Dancing — With A Side Of Meningitis Vaccination
Because of a meningitis outbreak that is disproportionately affecting gay and bisexual men, health officials are setting up pop-up free vaccination clinics at gay bars and clubs over the next two months.
KPCC:
Where To Get A Free Meningitis Shot In LA And Orange Counties
People hanging out this past Saturday night at Velvet Lounge, a gay bar in Santa Ana, might have been surprised by a special offer: Along with drinks, gay and bisexual men could also get a free meningitis shot inside the venue.The event was the first in a series of pop-up vaccination clinics that the Orange County Health Care Agency plans to hold at gay bars and clubs during August and September. It was a hit, with 31 people getting the shot and many expressing appreciation that the agency was there, says Jenna Sarin, the health care agency's division manager for family health. (Plevin, 8/9)
KPCC:
FAQ: What You Need To Know About Meningitis
It's a bacterial form of meningitis, which is an infection that inflames the lining surrounding the brain and the spinal cord. It's a serious medical condition that can cause brain damage, hearing loss and death.
Viral and fungal forms of meningitis also exist, says Dr. Otto Yang, associate chief of infectious diseases and professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. (O'Neill, Fox and Plevin, 8/8)