• Blood cultures
  • CSF (multiplex PCR will be performed as routine on babies under three months and in other patient groups if certain criteria are met)
  • EDTA blood for Meningococcal PCR (this will be sent to the reference laboratory) and is of importance if CSF sampling is not possible
  • Throat swab for Meningococcal culture.

Please discuss suspected or proven cases with Microbiology medical staff.

Inform UKHSA immediately for probable / confirmed Meningococcal meningitis. They will arrange prophylaxis of contacts.

Tel: 0344 225 3861

Sample type

For Meningococcal PCR - plasma

Specimen requirements

For Meningococcal PCR - blood in EDTA tube

Minimum volume

For Meningococcal PCR - 0.4ml

Frequency of test

Sent to reference laboratory daily, Monday to Friday

Turnaround time

Meningococcal Reference Laboratory, Manchester TAT - 2 working days

What to request on EPR

Meningococcal PCR (EDTA blood)