Spatial and temporal patterns of meningitis in Sergipe, between 2012 and 2022

Meningitis represents a significant global public health issue. In Brazil, the disease exhibits distinct epidemiological characteristics depending on the region. This study aimed to analyze the spatial and temporal distribution patterns of meningitis in Sergipe from 2012 to 2022. This is an ecological study using data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System. Temporal analysis was performed using the Scalability Testing Methodology, while spatial analysis was conducted using Bayesian smoothing, followed by the Global Moran’s Index and the Local Spatial Association Index. During the study period, 402 cases were reported. Spatial distribution showed a higher concentration of cases and deaths in Aracaju and some municipalities in the southern region of the state. No spatial correlation with lethality was identified. Temporally, the highest incidence and mortality rates occurred in 2012, while the highest lethality peak was observed in 2015. The study concludes that the temporal trends were stable, and meningitis in Sergipe has an endemic pattern, with an uneven distribution across the territory.