Neisseria Meningitidis Testing

Testing for Neisseria meningitidis depends on the site of possible infection or carriage. In sexual health settings, this may involve a throat, urethral, rectal, or genital swab, and sometimes a urine sample.

Samples are analysed using PCR (NAAT) testing to detect the genetic material (DNA) of the bacteria. In some cases, bacterial culture testing may also be performed to help guide antibiotic treatment.

Preparation is usually simple. If you are asked to provide a urine sample, avoid passing urine for at least 2 hours before your appointment to help improve accuracy.

There is no need to fast. If you have symptoms or know when a possible exposure occurred, it may help to make a note of this before your appointment.

The recommended window period is generally around 14 days after potential exposure for the most reliable result.

If you have symptoms, such as discharge, irritation, or pain when passing urine, testing may be recommended sooner rather than waiting.

Testing usually uses PCR (NAAT) technology to detect the genetic material (DNA) of Neisseria meningitidis in the sample collected.

PCR works by amplifying very small amounts of bacterial DNA, allowing the laboratory to identify infection even when only low levels of bacteria are present.

In some situations, bacterial culture testing may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess antibiotic susceptibility.

PCR testing for Neisseria meningitidis is generally highly sensitive and specific when appropriate samples are collected.

Accuracy may be influenced by:

• Timing of the test
• The anatomical site sampled
• Sample quality
• Recent antibiotic use

Testing too soon after exposure may reduce the likelihood of detection.

Testing may be considered if:

• You have symptoms such as discharge, irritation, or pain when passing urine
• A partner has been diagnosed with Neisseria meningitidis
• You have persistent symptoms despite negative results for more common infections, such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia

Because this is not routinely included in standard sexual health screening, testing is usually recommended based on symptoms or clinical risk.

A physical examination is not always necessary and depends on your symptoms and clinical history.

If you have symptoms, a clinician may recommend an examination to decide which areas should be tested. If you have no symptoms and are attending for screening only, an examination may not be required.

Yes. Different laboratory methods and sample types may be used depending on symptoms and clinical concerns.

• PCR (NAAT) testing is commonly used to detect bacterial DNA
• Culture testing may help identify antibiotic susceptibility
• Gram stain microscopy may occasionally assist with rapid preliminary assessment

Testing may involve throat, urethral, rectal, genital, or urine samples depending on symptoms and exposure history.

You can receive your test results by either text or email.

Results are usually reported as:

• NOT Detected — no Neisseria meningitidis was identified in the sample tested
• DETECTED — Neisseria meningitidis genetic material was identified in the sample

Occasionally, a result may be reported as equivocal or inconclusive, meaning the laboratory could not confirm a clear result from the sample provided. If this occurs, repeat testing may be recommended.

If testing is being performed because of symptoms or possible exposure, it is advisable to avoid close intimate contact, including oral sexual contact, until results are available.

Because Neisseria meningitidis may be carried in the throat, it is sensible to avoid sharing saliva-contaminated items such as:

• Toothbrushes
• Drinking bottles or glasses
• Cutlery
• Vaping devices

Urgent medical assessment is required if symptoms such as fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, or a non-blanching rash develop.

If your test is positive, a clinician will review the result alongside your symptoms, sample type, and clinical history to determine whether treatment or further assessment is needed.

Antibiotic treatment may be recommended depending on the clinical situation.

You may also be advised to avoid close intimate contact until assessment or treatment is complete.

Urgent hospital assessment is required if invasive meningococcal disease is suspected.

Partner notification may sometimes be recommended, particularly if the bacteria are identified in a sexual health context or if close contacts may be at increased risk.

Your clinician can advise whether recent partners or household contacts should be informed, tested, or assessed further.

Yes, we provide a certificate of testing.

Please let us know at the time that you would like a certificate of testing and bring a proof of ID (passport or driving licence).