Meningitis (bacterial) & meningococcal disease in babies, children and young people: recognition, diagnosis and management ( NICE guidance summary )

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has released an updated guideline on Meningitis (Bacterial) and Meningococcal Disease: Recognition, Diagnosis, and Management, published on 19 March 2024. This comprehensive guideline is designed to support healthcare professionals in identifying, diagnosing, and managing these serious infections across all age groups. By emphasizing early recognition and immediate treatment, the recommendations aim to significantly reduce the mortality and morbidity associated with bacterial meningitis and meningococcal disease.

Key updates include enhanced guidance on early symptom recognition, timely administration of empirical antibiotics, diagnostic strategies like lumbar puncture, and personalized antibiotic selection based on pathogen sensitivities. The guideline also highlights the importance of follow-up care to address potential complications such as hearing loss or neurological issues.

Explore the latest evidence-based approaches to safeguard patient outcomes and ensure optimal care for these life-threatening conditions.

Meningitis is the inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. This condition can be caused by bacterial, viral, fungal, or other infections, but the bacterial form is the most severe and is a medical emergency.

Key Points for Clinicians:

• Causes: Bacterial (e.g., Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae), viral (e.g., enteroviruses), fungal (e.g., Cryptococcus), or...