Preparedness and response to bacterial meningitis outbreaks: toolkit for frontline healthcare workers

Overview

The global burden of acute bacterial meningitis remains high, particularly in low- and middle-income countries and resource-limited settings. Following the publication of the guidelines on meningitis diagnosis, treatment and care, the World Health Organization has developed a toolkit to translate evidence-based recommendations into practical implementation guidance for use at the point of care.

Designed as a suite of job aids on acute bacterial meningitis, this document serves as a resource for frontline healthcare professionals globally, including in settings where the risk of outbreaks and excess mortality is highest. With a primary focus on acute bacterial meningitis in children aged over 1 month, adolescents and adults, the toolkit provides clinical guidance on the causative pathogens, clinical manifestations, diagnostic investigations, antibiotic therapy, adjunctive treatment, supportive care, post-exposure antibiotic prophylaxis, and infection prevention and control in healthcare settings.