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Epidemiology of bacterial meningitis in Lebanon from 2011 to 2019
Antonio El Kareh1, Said El Hage2, Steven Safi1
1Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Lebanon.
Background:
Meningitis is a clinical syndrome, characterized by the inflammation of the meninges, the protective tissues that envelop the brain and spinal cord. It can be due to bacterial, viraland even fungal pathogens.
Objectives:
This study's aim is to investigate and observe the different aspects of meningitis in Lebanon between 2011 and 2019, specifically bacterial meningitis, and compare the incidence rates to different countries.
Materials And Methods:
This study is a descriptive epidemiological study. Data were collected from the epidemiological surveillance unit of the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health. Incidence according to year, months, age groups, governorates and causative agents were analyzed in the 9-years period.
Results:
With an incidence rate of approximately 7.56 cases a year per 100,000 individuals, bacterial meningitis accounted for most of the meningitis cases from 2011 to 2019. Four of the most commonly identified bacterial pathogens were studied: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as well as other cases of meningitis with an identified or unidentified agent. The most common identifiable pathogen was S. pneumoniae (13.06%), followed by N. meningitidis (7.09%), and H. influenzae (0.56%).
Conclusion:
The data provided by the MOPH was evaluated in order to get a better understanding of the disease and improve the plans of action towards its control and treatment. Efforts should be made to preserve and ameliorate the existing surveillance system, and to ensure that all cases of meningitis are reported and investigated in compliance with the WHO guidelines.
Insights
Bacterial meningitis occurred at approximately 7.56 cases per 100,000 annually in Lebanon from 2011-2019. Streptococcus pneumoniae was the most frequent pathogen, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance and control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health Surveillance
Background:
- Meningitis is a critical clinical syndrome caused by inflammation of the meninges.
- Pathogens responsible for meningitis include bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate bacterial meningitis in Lebanon from 2011 to 2019.
- To compare Lebanese incidence rates with international data.
- To analyze epidemiological aspects of meningitis.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive epidemiological study design.
- Utilized data from the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health's surveillance unit.
- Analyzed incidence by year, month, age, governorate, and causative agent over nine years.
Main Results:
- Bacterial meningitis incidence averaged 7.56 cases per 100,000 individuals annually.
- Streptococcus pneumoniae was the most common identified pathogen (13.06%).
- Neisseria meningitidis (7.09%) and Haemophilus influenzae (0.56%) were also significant pathogens.
Conclusions:
- Data evaluation improves understanding and control strategies for meningitis.
- Strengthening and preserving the surveillance system is crucial.
- Ensuring WHO guideline compliance for reporting and investigation is essential.
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