UK charity Meningitis Now is urging members of the public not to allow coverage of the pressures facing the NHS to prevent them from seeking medical help if they suspect meningitis. 

There is a spike in cases of bacterial meningitis during the winter months, the charity said, with figures for 2017 indicating that people were 2.2 times more at risk between January and March than between July and September (266 reported cases versus 120). 

The charity said that while for many conditions patients could use services such as pharmacies and NHS 111 as a first port of call, suspected meningitis should always be treated as an emergency and that those affected should visit their local A&E department.

Meningitis Now CEO Dr Tom Nutt said: “We understand the pressures that the NHS is currently facing. However, if you suspect meningitis seek medical help immediately – please do not hesitate or be put off by recent stories of a struggling NHS.” 

“It is vital to seek help as quickly as possible, as we know that early medical intervention can vastly improve outcomes.”