CANOGA PARK, Calif. – An outbreak of potentially deadly invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) has been reported in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Industry trade association Free Speech Coalition is recommending all adult industry employees, especially performers, be vaccinated as a precautionary measure.

Although no cases have been reported among the adult entertainment population, 24 cases of IMD, including meningitis and bloodstream infections, have been treated in Los Angeles County, Long Beach and Orange County since Jan. 1. Sixteen of the cases developed within the past two months.

The disease is transmitted through saliva, sneezing, coughing, sharing beverages and kissing. Smoking and close or intimate contact with multiple partners have been shown to increase risk. While the bacteria does not discriminate, most of the cases in the current outbreak have been among men who have sex with men.

As part of ongoing collaboration between the adult industry and state and local public health departments, the FSC feels it is important to help raise awareness about IMD.

A single vaccination will protect most people who have not been diagnosed with HIV. HIV-positive individuals and some others with specific health conditions are urged to receive two vaccinations. Free vaccinations are provided by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Call 211 or visit this website for more information.