Encephalitis: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Suspected encephalitis is an emergency.

   Call emergency services for a person with new confusion, severe drowsiness, a seizure, loss of consciousness, sudden major behaviour change, or new weakness—especially when accompanied by fever or headache.

   Follow emergency-service instructions.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Someone recovering from encephalitis needs urgent reassessment for a new seizure, rapidly worsening confusion, difficulty waking, breathing problems, or new weakness.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   For non-emergency concerns, arrange routine follow-up for persistent headaches, fatigue, memory or mood changes, sleep problems, or difficulties returning to ordinary activities.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Encephalitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.