Abstract
The meninges, which cover the spinal cord and brain, are inflamed in meningitis. Around 20 cases per 100,000 individuals are reported annually, which can exceed limits and cause numerous deaths worldwide. This study investigates the disease's spread rate in Diyala Governorate, the most affected age groups and genders, and which health sectors had the most cases.
A cross-sectional research of 316 patients from January 1 to December 1, 2025, was conducted in Diyala province using primary health care facility patient records supplied to the Public Health Department/Surveillance Unit.
Rural cases dominated (61%). Young children (1–5 years old) were most affected, with 46% of instances. First-quarter case distribution soared. Between January and March, 50% of cases were recorded, with February (20%) being the most. October saw autumn instances reduce to 2%. Over half the cases were in Baquba 1 and 2. The greatest prevalence rate was 24.3 per 100,000 in Khanaqin. Total Diyala prevalence was 16.4. Most (39.4%) were viral.
In conclusion, women’s cases were higher than men’s. Viral meningitis caused most infections, affecting children under 5 years old, particularly in rural settings. Around half of the injuries occurred in Baqubah's first and second sectors.
A cross-sectional research of 316 patients from January 1 to December 1, 2025, was conducted in Diyala province using primary health care facility patient records supplied to the Public Health Department/Surveillance Unit.
Rural cases dominated (61%). Young children (1–5 years old) were most affected, with 46% of instances. First-quarter case distribution soared. Between January and March, 50% of cases were recorded, with February (20%) being the most. October saw autumn instances reduce to 2%. Over half the cases were in Baquba 1 and 2. The greatest prevalence rate was 24.3 per 100,000 in Khanaqin. Total Diyala prevalence was 16.4. Most (39.4%) were viral.
In conclusion, women’s cases were higher than men’s. Viral meningitis caused most infections, affecting children under 5 years old, particularly in rural settings. Around half of the injuries occurred in Baqubah's first and second sectors.