DENVER — Meningococcal bacteria, which can cause meningitis, has been detected in four people experiencing homelessness since Jan. 12, the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment said Friday.
The health department said it does not believe the cases are related but is considering it a "community-based outbreak." Health providers who work with people experiencing homelessness are being notified so they can be aware and be on the lookout for additional cases.
The health department said the risk of transmission to the general public is low. It is recommending a vaccine to people experiencing homelessness because the uptick in cases is among their population.
Colorado Coalition for the Homeless' chief communications officer Cathy Alderman said sickness can be a deterrent to shelter use.
"During any kind of outbreak where transmission happens through the air or touch, sharing eating locations or restrooms, it can be a little intimidating for people to wonder if they’re safe in shelters," Alderman said.
She explained that after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, shelters shifted operations to include more safety protocols to control a potential spread.
She said alerting people at risk of a potential sickness can be the most difficult step in keeping people safe.
"It can be really complicated for someone to know an outbreak is happening or how to protect themselves," Alderman said. "They’re not getting the same public health alerts that providers are getting, or media is getting."
Alderman said DDPHE alerted Denver city shelters to the outbreak.
The four people who have been identified with the bacteria have been interviewed, and antibiotic post-exposure prophylaxis has been offered to staff and guests at the four locations where they were staying when they got sick. The health department did not say what those locations are.
Meningitis occurs when the protective membranes of the brain and spinal cord swell. It is typically caused by a bacterial infection. Symptoms include sudden fever, headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, nausea, vomiting and confusion.
People spread meningococcal bacteria by sharing saliva or spit. It requires close or lengthy contact to spread such as coughing, kissing or sharing beverages or cigarettes/vape pens.
The health department said it is working with the shelter system to provide information about the outbreak and available options. It is also offering vaccine clinics in shelters in partnership with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Public Health Institute at Denver Health.
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