From January to June 2023, the state of São Paulo registered 2,303 cases of meningitis, an increase of 23% compared to the same period last year, when there were 1,869 confirmations of the disease. The data was provided by the State Health Secretariat.
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Other Cities
In addition to the capital, São Bernardo do Campo and Santo André (ABC), Campinas (inland) and Guarulhos (Greater São Paulo) are the municipalities with the most cases of the disease.
Deaths
Regarding the number of deaths, there was a decrease of 32.60%. There were 155 in the first half of this year against 230 in the same period last year. São Paulo, Guarujá, Guarulhos, Osasco, Ribeirão Preto and Santo André account for more deaths.
The Capital
In São Paulo city, during the first six months of this year, there were 1,060 cases and 79 deaths from meningitis. Of these, 73 cases and 15 deaths were recorded for meningococcal disease, the most severe form.
Causes
Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges – membranes that surround and protect the brain, spinal cord and other parts of the central nervous system.
Symptoms
High fever, severe headache, spots on the body, jet vomiting (not accompanied by nausea), prostration, stiffness and pain in the back of the neck, in addition to neurological manifestations, such as mental confusion and seizures.
Vaccines
Both the Public Health System and the Private laboratories offer vaccines against some forms of meningitis. The vaccines in the private labs are more complete, offering a wider coverage.
Contamination
Transmission is by air, from person to person, through droplets, nose and throat secretions. It can also occur via the fecal-oral route, through ingestion of contaminated water and food, and contact with feces. It usually affects children under five years of age, but anyone can develop meningitis.
Source: Folha de São Paulo
