Pensacola, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Escambia County (FDOH-Escambia) offers meningococcal vaccines by appointment Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Call 850-595-6554 to schedule an appointment. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect against meningococcal disease. 

Meningococcal disease is on the rise in Florida. Thus far, the number of cases identified in 2022 surpasses the 5-year average of meningococcal disease cases in Florida. FDOH epidemiologists are investigating each case as well as contacting people with potential or direct exposure to known cases to provide them with information and treatment options. 

FDOH-Escambia reminds everyone to get vaccinated, and stay vaccinated, against meningococcal disease. Meningococcal disease is a vaccine-preventable illness that is spread through close contact over a period of time, or direct contact such as kissing or sharing drinks. 

The following groups are at high-risk and should consider vaccination with a meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine during this outbreak:

• College and university students;
• Immunocompromised individuals;
• People living with HIV;
• Men who have sex with men;
• People in any groups listed above who received their MenACWY vaccine more than 5 years ago. 

For more information regarding meningococcal and Hepatitis A immunizations, please call 850-595-6554 or visit the FDOH-Escambia website at EscambiaHealth.com. 

For more information about meningococcal disease, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website or the FDOH website. 

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About the Florida Department of Health

The Florida Department of Health, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyEscambia and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.