Meningitis cases Rise in Baixada Santista, Claiming Seven lives in 2025
Santos, SP – At least 44 cases of meningitis have been confirmed across six of the nine municipalities in Brazil’s Baixada Santista region in 2025, resulting in seven deaths, local authorities reported Thursday. The affected cities are Santos, São Vicente, Cubatão, Praia Grande, Mongaguá, and Itanhaém.
Santos has reported six confirmed cases and one death this year, a rise from 2024’s 20 cases and two fatalities. Cubatão has seen three cases and three deaths in 2025, compared to five cases and two deaths the previous year. Praia Grande reports 11 cases and three deaths so far this year, mirroring the 13 cases and three deaths recorded in 2024.
Mongaguá has recorded three cases in 2025 with no deaths, following three cases and one death in 2024. Itanhaém has four cases and no deaths this year, while São Vicente has confirmed 17 cases. data for 2024 was not immediately available from all city halls.
Meningitis can be caused by either viruses or bacteria, impacting treatment and prognosis.Common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, nausea or vomiting, and sensitivity to light.
Health authorities strongly urge individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention immediately for clinical evaluation and appropriate treatment.
The São Paulo State Department of health is actively conducting an epidemiological examination into the meningitis outbreak in the Baixada santista region and is closely monitoring case progression in collaboration with local municipalities, according to a statement released by the ministry.
To prevent the spread of meningitis, authorities recommend frequent handwashing with soap and water, notably before meals and after using the restroom. Regular cleaning and disinfection of shared surfaces, toys, and utensils, along with good ventilation, are also advised. individuals should avoid sharing personal items like glasses, cutlery, and bottles, and practice respiratory etiquette – covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with a disposable tissue, followed by handwashing.
