Meningococcal Disease Outbreak Response

Outbreaks occur when the observed numbers of cases are above what is expected for a particular disease. As of February 2025, reported cases of meningococcal disease in Virginia have remained below baseline (expected) levels for at least six months. As such, this outbreak has concluded. The strain associated with this outbreak continues to circulate in Virginia and the United States. Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best protection against meningococcal disease.

Summary

From June 2022 to February 2025, the Virginia Department of Health responded to a statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y. The first case was detected in Virginia's Eastern health region, and a regional outbreak was declared in September 2022. The same strain was identified causing infections at a higher than expected rate statewide, leading to a statewide outbreak declaration in August 2023. 

On March 28, 2024, CDC issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory alerting healthcare providers of an increase in meningococcal disease, mainly due to Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y, sequence type (ST) 1466, the same strain associated with Virginia's outbreak.

On February 25, 2025, VDH concluded the statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease following a return to pre-outbreak levels. The strain associated with this outbreak continues to circulate in Virginia and nationally. Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best protection against meningococcal disease.

Outbreak Cases by Region

41 confirmed cases of meningococcal disease were identified in association with this outbreak, including 8 deaths.† A common risk factor was not determined; however, genetic sequencing of available specimens confirmed the cases were highly genetically related.

Region* Cases†
Central 3
Eastern 29
Northern 3
Northwest 0
Southwest 6
Total 41

* The following local health districts reported at least one outbreak-associated case of meningococcal disease: Alleghany, Central Virginia, Fairfax, Hampton, Henrico, Norfolk, Peninsula, Pittsylvania/Danville, Portsmouth, Prince William, Roanoke, Southside, Virginia Beach, and Western Tidewater.

† As of: 2/25/25, Cases are defined using the national meningococcal disease case definition.

For more information, please visit VDH's Meningococcal Disease webpage.

Last Updated: February 25, 2025