Defeating Paediatric Tuberculous Meningitis: Applying the WHO "Defeating Meningitis by 2030: Global Roadmap"

Area of Science:

• Pediatric infectious diseases
• Neurology
• Public health policy

Background:

• Childhood tuberculous meningitis (TBM) presents unique challenges at the intersection of tuberculosis and meningitis programs.
• Existing programs may not fully address the specific needs of children with TBM and their families.
• A coordinated approach is necessary to effectively combat TBM in pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt the World Health Organization's (WHO) "Defeating Meningitis by 2030: global roadmap" for the specific context of childhood TBM.
• To outline key goals and activities for defeating TBM in children.
• To highlight the need for integrated strategies across TB and meningitis initiatives.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of existing literature and WHO roadmaps.
• Application of the WHO "Defeating Meningitis by 2030" roadmap's five pillars to TBM in children.
• Analysis of how prevention, diagnosis, treatment, surveillance, support, and advocacy can be tailored for TBM.

Main Results:

• The WHO roadmap's five pillars provide a framework adaptable to childhood TBM.
• Specific strategies are needed within each pillar to address TBM's unique aspects.
• Integration of TB and meningitis programs is crucial for comprehensive care.

Conclusions:

• Greater integration between meningitis and tuberculosis programs is essential at global and national levels.
• Tailoring global meningitis strategies to pediatric TBM can improve outcomes.
• A unified approach is vital for defeating childhood TBM by 2030.