The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LAC DPH) issued a health advisory on May 21, 2024. This advisory shares information about ciprofloxacin-resistant strains of Neisseria meningitidis that have been increasing both nationally and internationally in recent years.
Key Messages
- Ciprofloxacin should no longer be used in LA County for invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) due to resistance. Rifampin, ceftriaxone, or azithromycin are recommended for IMD PEP.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting cases of IMD linked to Umrah travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
- Healthcare providers should ensure that patients age one year or older considering travel to perform Hajj or Umrah have received a MenACWY vaccine.
- Healthcare providers should have a heightened index of suspicion for IMD. Be aware that patients with IMD may present with bloodstream infection or septic arthritis and without symptoms typical of meningitis.
- Immediately report all patients suspected and confirmed to have IMD to LA County Department of Public Health (LAC DPH) by calling 213-240-7941. After hours call 213-974-1234.