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Published on: November 5, 2019
Viral meningitis, active and reserve components, U.S. Armed Forces, 2002-2011
MSMR
|September 12, 2012
Summary
Viral meningitis, primarily caused by enteroviruses, affected military members over a decade. Most cases required hospitalization, with infections peaking in late summer and early fall.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
- Viral infections are the leading cause of meningitis.
- Enteroviruses are a common viral cause of meningitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence and characteristics of viral meningitis among active and reserve component military members.
- To identify the most common causative agents and trends in viral meningitis cases.
- To understand the impact of viral meningitis on military personnel.
Main Methods:
- A 10-year surveillance period was used to collect data on confirmed, probable, and suspected cases.
- Diagnostic data focused on identifying the specific viral agents responsible for meningitis.
- Case hospitalization rates and durations were recorded.
Main Results:
- Over 3,200 confirmed cases of viral meningitis were reported, with enteroviruses being the most frequent cause.
- A significant majority (64.2%) of enteroviral meningitis cases required hospitalization, averaging 3.2 days.
- Case numbers peaked in late summer/early fall, with notable outbreaks in 2003.
Conclusions:
- Enteroviruses are a significant cause of viral meningitis in military populations.
- Viral meningitis necessitates substantial healthcare utilization, including hospitalization.
- Public health strategies focusing on transmission interruption, such as hygiene and disinfection, are crucial for prevention.
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