The state of Santa Catarina, in southern Brazil, has recorded a notable increase in cases of meningococcal disease, a severe bacterial cause of meningitis, according to recent data released by the State Secretariat of Health. By October 2025, authorities had confirmed 36 infections, reflecting a progressive rise observed over the past four years.
Epidemiological Trends Indicate Growing Concern
A report issued by the state’s Directorate of Epidemiological Surveillance shows that meningococcal disease has fluctuated but generally trended upward. The state registered 14 cases in 2021, followed by 26 in 2022, 30 in 2023, and 28 in 2024.
Fatalities have also increased: three deaths were documented in 2024, while seven were confirmed in 2025. Although cases have occurred throughout the region, the Serra Catarinense health district accounts for the highest proportion, with nearly 17% of all notifications, followed by the Northeast region.
Adults aged 30 to 39 years represent the age group most affected in this current cycle of transmission.
Dominant Serogroup and Clinical Impact
Among the circulating serogroups, meningococcal serogroup C remains the most frequent and the most lethal. Vaccines targeting this serogroup are available free of charge through Brazil’s public health system for children and adolescents.
Of the seven deaths confirmed in 2025, three were attributed to serogroup C, all occurring in individuals aged 20–39, resulting in a case-fatality rate of nearly 20% for this subgroup.
Health authorities reiterate that meningococcal disease can progress rapidly. Symptoms may begin abruptly and typically include fever, intense headache, neck stiffness, nausea and vomiting. Dermatological manifestations, such as red or purplish spots, may signal a more severe form known as meningococcaemia. Behavioural changes — including confusion, drowsiness or difficulty waking — also warrant immediate medical assessment. In infants, signs may be subtle and include irritability, lethargy or reduced feeding.
Meningitis itself is defined as inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or, less commonly, non-infectious triggers such as trauma.
Vaccination: Key to Prevention
Brazil’s National Immunisation Programme (PNI) offers several vaccines that protect against bacterial pathogens responsible for meningitis. These include:
Meningococcal C
Meningococcal ACWY
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
Pneumococcal vaccines
BCG (for tuberculosis-related complications)
In Santa Catarina, these vaccines are available at no cost in primary health centres.
The conjugate meningococcal C vaccine is provided from three months of age and consists of doses at 3 and 5 months, followed by a booster at 12 months, now administered using the ACWY formulation. Adolescents aged 11 to 14 are also routinely offered the ACWY vaccine.
Studies published in journals such as The Lancet Infectious Diseases and Vaccine consistently affirm the effectiveness of conjugate meningococcal vaccines in reducing disease circulation and preventing outbreaks.
Non-Pharmacological Measures Remain Essential
Alongside vaccination, health authorities in Brazil continue to stress the importance of everyday protective measures, particularly in settings involving close contact. Recommended practices include:
Ensuring adequate ventilation in indoor spaces
Frequent handwashing with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitiser
Cleaning and disinfecting shared surfaces
Maintaining strict hygiene of household items, toys and school materials
Avoiding the sharing of personal items such as utensils and drinking vessels
These measures contribute to reducing the spread of various respiratory pathogens, including Neisseria meningitidis, the bacterium responsible for meningococcal disease.
Ongoing Monitoring and Public Health Response
Santa Catarina’s health authorities have reiterated their commitment to enhanced surveillance and rapid response to meningococcal disease. The ongoing rise in cases, coupled with increased lethality in recent months, underscores the need for widespread immunisation, early diagnosis and public awareness.