When is GP consultation recommended for meningitis?

Meningitis is inflammation around the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms may include fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, light sensitivity, confusion, unusual sleepiness or a rash that does not fade when pressed. The illness can worsen quickly, and symptoms vary by age, so a GP telephone appointment is not a substitute for emergency assessment when meningitis is suspected.

Call emergency services if meningitis is a concern and describe the symptoms clearly. Do not drive yourself if confused, faint or severely unwell. Keep the person comfortable, stay with them and note when symptoms began. Do not delay for food, fluids, a routine appointment or a rash to appear. Mention recent infections, close contact with illness and vaccination information if known.

Emergency help is needed for a non-fading rash, seizure, confusion, collapse, severe drowsiness, breathing difficulty, blue or mottled skin, or a baby who is difficult to wake, feeding poorly or unusually irritable. A very young child may show a bulging soft spot or a high-pitched cry rather than the classic adult symptoms.

Ask what diagnosis was considered, which symptoms require a return to hospital, whether close contacts need advice, and how follow-up will check hearing, concentration or recovery.