How long does a GP consultation take to work for meningitis?

Meningitis can worsen quickly and may cause fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, light sensitivity, confusion, unusual sleepiness or a rash. A clinician assesses the overall pattern, examines you and decides whether emergency hospital care or testing is needed. Do not wait for a routine appointment to see whether symptoms improve.

If meningitis is suspected, contact emergency services or go to an emergency department. Tell the team when symptoms began, whether there was recent infection or close contact with illness, and which medicines have been taken. Do not drive yourself if confused, faint, severely unwell or unsafe to travel. Learn more about Meningitis and GP Consultation.

Get emergency help for a severe headache with fever, stiff neck, confusion, a seizure, difficulty waking, breathing problems or a rash that does not fade when pressed. Symptoms may not all appear together, so do not wait for every feature.

Ask what symptoms make meningitis a concern, whether hospital assessment is required, which tests may be used and what warning signs should prompt immediate return.