WHO practical manual on meningitis diagnosis, treatment and care

This practical manual has been developed by the World Health Organization to support implementation of the guidelines on meningitis diagnosis, treatment and care and to strengthen the clinical management of acute meningitis in diverse health care settings. Addressing the continuing global burden of meningitis, particularly in low- and middle-income countries and during epidemics and humanitarian emergencies, the manual provides operational guidance for health care professionals working in first- and second-level facilities, including emergency, inpatient and outpatient services. It focuses primarily on community-acquired acute bacterial meningitis in children older than 1 month, adolescents and adults, while also covering key considerations related to neonatal meningitis, viral meningitis, tuberculous meningitis, HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis and cerebral malaria.

The manual presents practical, evidence-based approaches for triage, neurological assessment, lumbar puncture, cerebrospinal fluid and blood investigations, antimicrobial treatment, supportive care and prevention of secondary meningococcal disease. It also addresses the early identification and rehabilitation of neurological sequelae, including hearing loss, and emphasizes follow-up care and coordination of health and social services. Designed as a point-of-care resource, the publication includes algorithms, checklists and job aids to facilitate timely diagnosis, treatment and long-term management of meningitis and its complications.