EPIDEMIC MENINGITIS

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Abstract
In this discussion the term "epidemic meningitis"1is applied to all patients suffering from meningococcic infections. It does not include carriers but does embrace instances of meningococcemia whether with or without clinical evidence of meningitis. The contention is made sometimes that this disease is much more severe in the presence of an epidemic than among sporadic or endemic cases. On the basis of my own experience during a number of years, such a view is not acceptable. It is even quite possible that during an extensive outbreak many patients may suffer from attacks that are not extremely severe. Consequently the case fatality rate may be comparatively low. On the other hand it is not unusual to have admitted to our contagious disease hospitals patients with a fulminating type of infection at a time when there have been few reports of the disease. Under the latter circumstances the fatality rate

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