Background: Influenza and meningitis are interconnected through shared epidemiological patterns and complications, with influenza often leading to bacterial meningitis by compromising host immunity. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis to explore global research trends on influenza and meningitis.

Methods: A comprehensive search was performed for publications on influenza and meningitis from 1980 to 2024 using the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. Bibliometric analysis and visualization were conducted using the "bibliometrix" R package, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace.

Results: A total of 397 articles were analyzed, accumulating 12,829 citations. The USA led in productivity, followed by Japan and China, with the University of California System as the top institution. Vaccine emerged as the leading journal, while Kawashima Hisashi, Oana Shingo, and Yamanaka Gaku were identified as the most influential authors. Keyword cluster analysis identified five primary research areas: epidemiology and resistance, diagnostic methods, pediatric implications, vaccination and immunization, and pathogen interactions in influenza and meningitis. Notably, the increasing prominence of the keyword "burden" in recent years reflects a growing focus on the global epidemiological impact and healthcare challenges associated with these diseases. Additionally, emerging research trends include vaccine hesitancy, long-term sequelae in pediatric populations, and integrated approaches to prevention and management.

Conclusion: This study provides a bibliometric analysis of influenza and meningitis research, highlighting emerging trends, influential publications, and global collaborations. Despite the use of a single major database, the findings offer valuable insights; however, future global reviews may benefit from including multiple databases to maximize recall and minimize bias. Future research should prioritize advancements in vaccine development, diagnostic innovation, and integrated management strategies to address evolving public health challenges and improve outcomes in influenza and meningitis.