São Bento do Sul Resident Dies of Meningitis, Raising Concerns Over Increasing Cases in Santa Catarina
SÃO BENTO DO SUL, SC – A 53-year-old woman, a resident of Joinville, has died after being hospitalized with meningitis at Sagrada Família hospital and Maternity in São Bento do Sul. Teh death was confirmed by Dive/SC, the surveillance department of the Santa Catarina State Department of Health.
Meningitis is a serious inflammatory disease affecting the membranes surrounding the central nervous system, caused by infectious and non-infectious agents. Infectious meningitis, particularly bacterial and viral strains, is a significant public health concern due to its potential for outbreaks.
Santa Catarina has seen a rise in meningococcal disease cases – a specific cause of meningitis – in recent years. Official reports indicate 36 confirmed cases this year, compared to 14 in 2021, 26 in 2022, 30 in 2023, and 28 last year.
Symptoms of meningitis include fever, headache, neck stiffness or pain, vomiting, and red or purplish skin spots. Behavioral changes like confusion, drowsiness, and difficulty waking are also warning signs. Infants may exhibit only irritation, loss of appetite, and fatigue.
Treatment involves antibiotic medications, which also help prevent further transmission, as the disease is contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets, secretions, and fecal-oral routes.
Dive/SC emphasizes the importance of prompt medical attention for anyone exhibiting potential symptoms.
