Which of the following is a common sign of meningitis?

A common sign of meningitis is fever and chills. Meningitis, which is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often presents with systemic symptoms such as increased temperature due to infection. Fever is a key indicator that the body is responding to inflammation or infection, as the immune system works to combat pathogens. Chills may accompany the fever as the body attempts to regulate its temperature.

Recognizing fever and chills as hallmark symptoms assists healthcare providers in making a prompt diagnosis, which is critical for effective management of meningitis. Other symptoms typically observed include a severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, and altered mental status, which can occur in conjunction with fever and chills. This understanding highlights the importance of monitoring these signs in patients who might be presenting with potential meningococcal or viral infections.