The Spanish women`s national football team is concerned about Aitana Bonmatí. The midfielder, who won the Ballon d`Or in both 2023 and 2024 and was also named Fifa Women`s Player of the Year in those years, has been hospitalized with viral meningitis. Bonmatí, aged 27, is a key player for both Barcelona and La Roja, who are set to begin their Women`s European Championship campaign in Switzerland on Wednesday, July 2nd. Her condition is reported as stable, but her recovery timeline is uncertain, making her potential absence from the tournament a real possibility.
Bonmatí Hospitalized: Her Photo from the Hospital
The situation gained wider attention after Bonmatí shared a photo on Instagram. The image shows her in a hospital bed with an intravenous drip, watching the Spain vs Japan friendly match (which her teammates won 3-1) on television. Bonmatí had reported high fever and severe illness in the preceding days, leading the national team`s medical staff to decide on hospitalization and IV treatment.
Aitana Bonmatí`s Current Condition
`Aitana is a very important player, and we will wait for her until the very end,` stated coach Montserrat Tomé during a press conference. `She missed the last training session with a fever and did not improve throughout the day. The only information I have is that we don`t know her recovery time. I can`t say anything more; I`d be speculating, as I am not a doctor.` The Spanish Federation also commented, noting that while `the word meningitis is frightening, it is principally under control. We don`t know how long her recovery will take.` Spain is scheduled to travel to Switzerland on Sunday for their training camp in Lausanne, but Bonmatí`s participation remains highly doubtful.
What is Viral Meningitis and Why It`s Serious
Viral meningitis involves the inflammation of the meninges – the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord – caused by viruses like enteroviruses, herpesviruses, or other pathogens. Although less severe than bacterial meningitis, the viral form can cause intense symptoms such as high fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, and sensitivity to light (photophobia). It spreads primarily through respiratory droplets (coughing or sneezing), but can also be transmitted by contact with contaminated objects or, less commonly, via blood or sexual contact.
Diagnosis is confirmed through clinical examination and a lumbar puncture. Mild cases of viral meningitis can often be managed at home with rest, pain relievers, and anti-sickness medication. However, more serious cases require hospitalization for monitoring and potential administration of antiviral medications. While full recovery typically occurs within 7-14 days without lasting effects, the acute phase of the illness can lead to significant physical weakness, which is currently affecting Bonmatí.
