In view of current meningitis cases in southern England, the German Society of Neurology (DGN) reminds us of the life-threatening danger of meningococcal infection and the decisive role of vaccination. The disease quickly leads to inflammation of the meninges and brain and can result in severe long-term effects such as visual disturbances, hearing loss, paralysis or dementia. If left untreated, it is often fatal.

In the case of suspicion, as with a stroke, the principle of “time is brain” applies: the earlier the therapy begins, the better the chances of survival without permanent damage. Typical early symptoms initially resemble a flu-like infection, but in the event of impaired consciousness, epileptic seizures or neurological deficits, the emergency number 112 must be dialed immediately. In the emergency room, after blood and cerebrospinal fluid tests – if necessary after a computed tomography – antibiotics are treated immediately, often before the final diagnosis. Contact persons also received a preventive antibiotic administration immediately.

The incidence of bacterial meningitis in Europe has fallen significantly over the past 30 years – from 6.37 to 1.58 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The DGN also attributes this to the hygiene measures during the Corona pandemic. Nevertheless, society warns of a renewed increase due to declining willingness to vaccinate.

Vaccination against meningococcal disease not only protects the individual, but can even completely eliminate the pathogen from the population if the vaccination rate is sufficiently high. The DGN therefore urgently advises compliance with the current STIKO recommendations of the Robert Koch Institute.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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