VIRAL MENINGITIS

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF THE CHILDHOOD AND YOUTH POPULATION BETWEEN 2021 AND 2023 IN THE NORTHERN REGION OF BRAZIL

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Viral meningitis consists of an inflammatory process of the meninges that mainly affects children. Among the main pathogens involved, enterovirus and herpes simplex virus stand out. The clinical picture is variable, but fever, headache and neck stiffness are usually present. OBJECTIVE: To outline the epidemiological profile of the child and youth population affected by viral meningitis between 2021 and 2023 in the northern region of the country. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review was prepared, with a comprehensive search in the database: Scielo, PubMed and MedLine, with the descriptors: “Viral Meningitis" and “Northern Region". The search was limited to articles published in the last 10 years and full texts. RESULTS: There is a heterogeneous variation in meningitis cases over the period 2021 to 2023, with no clear pattern of growth or reduction. CONCLUSION: The increase in hospitalizations for viral meningitis in children aged 5 to 9 years reinforces the need for urgent and multifaceted interventions.