Epidemiology of viral meningitis mortality in Brazil: regional and socioeconomic perspectives (2016-2023)

Abstract

Introduction: Viral meningitis is an infectious disease characterized by inflammation of the meninges, the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This study adopts a quantitative and descriptive approach aimed at analyzing regional inequalities in access to the healthcare system and their influence on the outcomes of viral meningitis in Brazil between 2016 and 2023. Methodology: The research will be conducted based on an analysis of secondary data from official sources such as the Mortality Information System (SIM) and DATASUS. Results: Data collection on viral meningitis mortality in Brazil from 2016 to 2023 revealed a total of 536 deaths, with the Southeast region leading with 43.28% (232 deaths). Regarding gender, 58.77% of deaths occurred in men, and most fatalities (77.42%) involved individuals aged 20 years or older. Mortality also showed a pattern related to educational attainment: 31.16% of deaths occurred among individuals with 12 or more years of schooling. Regarding race/color, white individuals accounted for 48.50% of deaths. Conclusion: The analysis revealed that regional and socioeconomic inequalities have a profound impact on viral meningitis mortality, highlighting a complex scenario in which structural factors play a decisive role in clinical outcomes.