ANÁLISIS EPIDEMIOLÓGICO DE MENINGITIS INFANTIL EN EL CENTRO-OESTE BRASILEÑO DE 2018 A 2022

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of childhood meningitis in the Central-West region of Brazil. Method: Epidemiological study based on secondary data from SINAN/DATASUS. Notifications of childhood meningitis from 2018 to 2022 were analyzed, focusing on individuals aged 0 to 14 years in the Central-West region, using various variables. Results: During the analyzed period, there were 1,094 cases of childhood meningitis in the Central-West region of Brazil, with 585 (53.47%) occurring in mixed-race children. Nationally, most cases involved white children, totaling 50.54% of notifications. Additionally, cases predominated in males, with 60.42% in the Central-West region and 58.30% nationwide. The most affected age group was <1 year, with 472 cases in the region. Meningitis-related deaths were frequent in the Central-West region, with 97 cases. Conclusion: There is a notable discrepancy in the incidence of unspecified meningitis (UM) compared to others, reflecting the diagnostic difficulties faced by the health system, due to the lack of use of adequate methods and more specific tests. Meningitis has a high epidemic potential, necessitating a closer look with investments in public policies and health education, aiming to reduce the high mortality rates present.