Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, often caused by infectious agents. The most common etiological agents are bacteria, viruses, fungi, and, less frequently, parasites. Bacterial meningitis, particularly caused by Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae, is associated with severe outcomes and requires urgent medical attention. Clinical presentation of meningitis includes symptoms such as sudden onset of fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, and photophobia. In bacterial meningitis, additional signs may include altered mental status, seizures, and a characteristic purpuric rash in the case of meningococcal infection. Viral meningitis tends to have a milder course, resembling flu-like symptoms. Diagnosis involves a lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for signs of inflammation, cell count, and pathogen detection. Blood cultures, imaging studies, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests aid in identifying the causative agent. Early diagnosis is critical for prompt initiation of appropriate treatment.
Title : Extensively drug-resistant bacterial infections: Confronting a global crisis with urgent solutions in prevention, surveillance, and treatment
Yazdan Mirzanejad, University of British Columbia, Canada
Title : Pathogen-derived noncanonical epitopes: Are they valuable targets for novel vaccinations and shall we be concerned about autoimmune responses?
Michele Mishto, Francis Crick Institute, United Kingdom
Title : Bioterrorism through the ages: Historical perspective, emerging threats, and medical countermeasures
Claudia Ferreira, Sorbonne University, France
Title : Measles vaccination coverage indicators in 2023 and advance towards measles elimination and eradication by 2030
Pedro Plans Rubio, College of Physicians of Barcelona, Spain
Title : Gendered socioeconomic impacts of emerging infectious diseases: Insights from a mixed-methods study in Guinea
Stephanie Maltais, University of Montreal, Canada
Title : The role of social sciences in operationalizing the One Health approach: A case study of the DOPERAUS project in Guinea and the Democratic Republic of Congo
Stephanie Maltais, University of Montreal, Canada