A new international study has been published with contributions from MEMT colleagues Dr Péter Gaál and Dr Tamás Joó. Based on the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2023 database, the study examines the global, regional and national burden of meningitis.
The publication analyses the incidence, mortality and disease burden of meningitis between 1990 and 2023, drawing on data from more than 200 countries and territories. The study shows that although global incidence and mortality have followed declining trends over the longer term, the disease remains a major public health challenge, particularly in lower-income regions.
The findings indicate that the burden of meningitis varies significantly across geographical areas and age groups. Young children and older age groups continue to face the greatest risk.
The study highlights that vaccination, timely diagnosis and stronger healthcare systems play a key role in further reducing the burden of meningitis. The publication contributes to a better understanding of the global burden of infectious diseases and supports international health policy decision-making.
The study is available at the following link: Global, regional, and national burden of meningitis, its risk factors, and aetiologies, 1990-2023