WHO launches first global meningitis guide

The World Health Organization, WHO,  has published its first-ever global guidelines for diagnosing, treating, and caring meningitis.

The new framework is designed to expedite detection, ensure timely treatment, and improve long-term support for individuals affected by the disease.

In a statement released on Thursday, WHO noted that the guidelines combine the latest evidence-based recommendations and serve as a critical tool in reducing deaths and disabilities associated with meningitis.

“Despite the availability of effective treatments and vaccines for some forms of meningitis, the disease remains a significant global health threat. Bacterial meningitis is the most dangerous form and can be fatal within 24 hours,” the statement read.

According to WHO, an estimated 2.5 million cases of meningitis occurred worldwide in 2019, including 1.6 million cases of bacterial meningitis. These infections resulted in approximately 240,000 deaths. Moreover, around 20% of bacterial meningitis survivors experience long-term complications, including physical and cognitive disabilities that significantly impact their quality of life.

WHO added that the disease places a heavy financial and social burden on individuals, families, and communities.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized the severity of the illness, stating that bacterial meningitis kills one in six people it affects and leaves many others with lasting health issues.

“Implementing these new guidelines will help save lives, improve long-term care for those affected by meningitis, and strengthen health systems. Meningitis can affect anyone, at any age, and anywhere,” he said.

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However, the burden of the disease is particularly high in low- and middle-income countries, as well as in regions that experience large-scale epidemics. The “meningitis belt” in sub-Saharan Africa—known for recurrent outbreaks of meningococcal meningitis—is especially vulnerable.

Dr. Ghebreyesus also outlined clinical recommendations for managing meningitis in children and adults:

“Improving clinical management of meningitis is essential for reducing mortality and morbidity, minimizing long-term complications and disability, and improving quality of life.”

The guidelines offer comprehensive, evidence-based recommendations for managing children older than one month, adolescents, and adults with acute community-acquired meningitis. They cover all aspects of care, including diagnosis, antibiotic therapy, adjunctive treatment, supportive care, and the management of long-term effects.

The guidelines address both bacterial and viral causes of meningitis due to their similar clinical presentations, diagnostic challenges, and treatment approaches. They are applicable in both epidemic and non-epidemic settings and replace WHO’s previous 2014 guidelines on meningitis outbreak response.

Recognizing the disproportionate burden of meningitis in resource-limited settings, the guidelines have been tailored for implementation in low- and middle-income countries. They are intended for use by healthcare professionals in first- and second-level healthcare facilities, including emergency, inpatient, and outpatient services.

Dr. Ghebreyesus noted that the guidelines can also be utilized by policymakers, health planners, academic institutions, and civil society organizations for capacity-building, education, and research purposes.

These guidelines are part of WHO’s broader Defeating Meningitis by 2030 Global Roadmap, adopted by Member States in 2020. The roadmap aims to eliminate bacterial meningitis epidemics, reduce vaccine-preventable bacterial meningitis cases by 50%, and decrease related deaths by 70%. It also aims to reduce disability and improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

Dr. Ghebreyesus highlighted five key areas required to achieve these objectives:

1. Diagnosis and Treatment – Faster detection and optimal clinical management
2. Prevention and Epidemic Control – Development of affordable vaccines, improved immunization coverage, and better outbreak response
3. Disease Surveillance – Enhanced monitoring systems to inform prevention and control strategies
4. Care and Support – Early recognition and improved access to care and long-term support
5. Advocacy and Engagement – Increased political commitment, public awareness, and recognition of the right to prevention and care

“With these new guidelines,” Ghebreyesus concluded, “WHO is equipping countries with a vital tool to close the gaps in meningitis diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care, ensuring more people receive the support they need, when they need it.”

NAN