A study published in The Lancet Neurology indicates that in 2023, meningitis resulted in 259,000 deaths and 2.5 million infections globally. While death and infection rates have decreased significantly since 1990, the progress is currently insufficient to meet the World Health Organization's (WHO) 2030 targets.
The WHO's 2030 targets aim for a 50% reduction in infections and a 70% reduction in deaths from meningitis.
Meningitis is recognized as the leading infectious cause of neurological disabilities worldwide. Since 2000, widespread global vaccine initiatives have contributed to a reduction in infections and deaths in both high and low-income nations. However, the rate of progress for meningitis trails behind other vaccine-preventable diseases.
This study represents the most extensive global assessment of meningitis conducted to date.
Key Findings from the Global Assessment
Globally, 259,000 people died from meningitis in 2023, with 2.5 million people infected with the disease during the same year. These figures underscore the continued significant impact of the disease.
The study identified low birthweight as the primary risk factor for meningitis deaths, followed by premature birth and air pollution (both household and atmospheric).
Low-income countries bore a disproportionately high burden of the disease, especially within the African meningitis belt. Nigeria, Chad, and Niger reported the highest death and infection rates globally.
Regarding the causative agents, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, non-polio enteroviruses, and other viruses were identified as the leading causes of death. Notably, non-polio enteroviruses were responsible for the highest number of overall cases.
Pathways to Global Reduction
Authors of the study suggest that expanded vaccination programs, improved antibiotic stewardship, increased access to care, and strengthened diagnostics and monitoring for meningitis are crucial steps to achieve further global reductions in the disease.