EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF MENINGOCOCCAL MENINGITIS IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS: SEASONALITY IMPACT IN THE SOUTH AND NORTHEAST REGIONS

Abstract

Meningitis is an infectious disease that primarily affects children. This quantitative, time-series study aimed to compare pediatric hospitalizations due to meningitis in the South and Northeast regions of Brazil between 2012 and 2023. Data were extracted from the Hospital Information System of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SIH/SUS), available through DATASUS, and stratified into two age groups: Group 1 (1–4 years) and Group 2 (5–9 years). Data tabulation was performed using Microsoft Excel®, and results were compared with the relevant literature. Across both regions, hospitalizations were more frequent in Group 1 (58.43%), likely due to immature immune systems and greater exposure to enclosed environments. This trend intensified during the colder seasons (autumn and winter), especially in the South, possibly due to low temperatures. The Northeast accounted for 56.82% of all hospitalizations (G1+G2), surpassing the South (43.18%), which may reflect regional socioeconomic disparities. Male patients predominated, and a decline in hospitalizations was noted following vaccine implementation and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis revealed distinct epidemiological patterns by region and age group, with greater vulnerability in younger children and a higher absolute number of hospitalizations in the Northeast. These findings underscore the importance of vaccination and public health policies aimed at prevention and equity in child health.