In a 1st, WHO brings guide to meningitis care

THE World Health Organization (WHO) has rolled out its first-ever global guidelines for meningitis diagnosis, treatment and care, aiming to expedite diagnosis and treatment, and improve long-term care for those affected. Bringing together the latest evidence-based recommendations, the guidelines provide critical insights on reducing deaths and disability caused by the disease.

- KAVITA BAJELI-DATT

Despite effective treatments and vaccines against certain forms of meningitis, the disease remains a significant global health threat.

Meningitis is an infection characterised by inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, known as meninges. Bacterial meningitis is the most dangerous manifestation and can become fatal within 24 hours. Many pathogens can cause the disease with an estimated 2.5 million cases reported worldwide in 2019. This includes 1.6 million cases of bacterial meningitis which resulted in approximately 2,40,000 deaths.