[Epidemiological aspects of neonatal purulent meningitis in Dakar]

The authors point out that, after tetanus, purulent meningitis is a very common neo-natal infection. Their epidemiology is dominated by the existence of particular obstetric and associated factors, which play an important role in the early development of this sickness. Numerous forms of bacteria, particularly pneumococci, were isolated. In spite of everything, the mortality rate is high, so attention should be given to preventing this illness. Better follow-up during pregnancy coupled with better conditions for delivery could help this prophylaxis.