Abstract
Objective: To trace the epidemiological profile of cases of bacterial meningitis, in order to facilitate the early diagnosis and the success of empirical therapy. Methods: It is classified as an ecological study of trend evaluation, descriptive and quantitative. Was consulted the Information available online in the Information System of Injury notification for the period between January 2007 and December 2017, reported in the state of Minas Gerais. The following variables were used: year, age, sex, diagnosis confirmation criteria and evolution. Results: Prevalence was observed in males and the macro regions of the Center, North Triagle and South of the State. The main etiological agents were Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis. The relative number of cases among children under one year of age and between one and four years of age, as well as mortality in this age group, was significant. The most commonly used method for diagnostic confirmation is chemocitological. Conclusions: The prevalence of bacterial meningitis is high and early diagnosis and rapid institution of treatment are paramount in reducing the mortality rate and complications caused by the disease.