Meningitis cases have increased nearly 60 percent in Honduras from January to date, compared to the same period in 2007, according to the head of the health department.
“Only 77 cases were reported last year, and 120 cases have been reported so far in 2008, accounting for a 55.8-percent increase,” Arita pointed out.
Meningitis is inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known collectively as the meninges. It can be caused by a virus or a bacterium.
The most frequent symptoms of meningitis are fever, headache and vomits. It can be a lethal disease or leave serious sequels when caused by a bacterium.
