VIRAL ENCEPHALITIS IN CHILDREN IN BRAZIL: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY AND REGIONAL TRENDS FROM 2015 TO 2024

Abstract

Viral encephalitis is characterized by inflammation of the brain parenchyma and is associated with high childhood morbidity and mortality, with risk of permanent neurological sequelae. This study analyzed the epidemiological profile, clinical outcomes, and economic impact of hospitalizations due to viral encephalitis among children aged 0–9 years in Brazil from 2015 to 2024. An ecological study was conducted using secondary data from the Hospital Information System of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), covering all regions. Sociodemographic characteristics, hospitalizations, costs, deaths, and prevalence and case-fatality rates were evaluated by age group and region. A total of 7,066 hospitalizations were recorded, mainly among children aged 1–4 years (46.4%), males (57.1%), and those self-identified as mixed race. Hospitalizations increased until 2019, declined in 2020–2021, and rose again from 2022 onward. The Northeast accounted for the highest number of admissions and deaths, while the Southeast showed the greatest hospital expenditures. Total costs exceeded R$ 14.7 million. Overall, 160 deaths were reported, with higher case-fatality rates among infants. Viral encephalitis remains a significant pediatric public health problem in Brazil, with regional disparities and substantial clinical and economic burden, highlighting the need to strengthen surveillance, prevention, and equitable access to care.