Meningitis (bacterial) and meningococcal disease

Quality statements

Statement 1 People sent home after clinical assessment indicates that they are unlikely to have bacterial meningitis or meningococcal disease are given safety netting advice. [2012, updated 2024]

Statement 2 People with suspected meningitis have lumbar puncture without neuroimaging unless they have a contraindication to lumbar puncture that requires neuroimaging. [New 2024]

Statement 3 People with suspected bacterial meningitis or suspected meningococcal disease receive intravenous (IV) antibiotics within 1 hour of their arrival at hospital. [2012, updated 2024]

Statement 4 People who have had bacterial meningitis or meningococcal disease have an audiological assessment within 4 weeks of being well enough for testing. [2012, updated 2024]

Statement 5 People who have had bacterial meningitis or meningococcal disease have a follow-up appointment in secondary care within 6 weeks of discharge from hospital. [2012, updated 2024]

In 2024 this quality standard was updated, and statements prioritised in 2012 were updated [2012, updated 2024] or replaced [new 2024]. For more information, see update information.