Factors Associated With Mortality Among Hospitalized Children With Acute Bacterial Meningitis in a Resource-Limited Setting: A Retrospective Study

Acute bacterial meningitis (ABM) is a significant public health problem in developing countries, including Yemen, especially during warfare. This is because persistent political turmoil impedes ABM prevalence, etiology, and treatment. Here, we investigate the factors associated with mortality among hospitalized children with ABM in a resource-limited setting. A retrospective study between March 2018 and December 2023 at the Pediatric Center, Althora General Hospital, Yemen, included 387 children (aged five days (OR: 161.84; 95 % CI: 9.97-16,700.53, p=0.005) were associated with mortality. Our findings highlight the prognostic significance of early detection of a predisposing focus to ABM. Poor prognosis and mortality may be associated with younger age, delayed hospitalization, malnutrition, and altered mental status.