What are common signs and symptoms of meningitis?

Common signs and symptoms of meningitis primarily include nausea, vomiting, and headache due to the inflammation of the protective membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. When the meninges are infected or inflamed, it often results in increased intracranial pressure, which can lead to intense headaches. Additionally, nausea and vomiting are frequent responses as the body reacts to the infection and the resulting neurological symptoms.

Other classical symptoms of meningitis include fever, stiff neck, and altered mental status, which further align with the neurological nature of the disease. The presence of these three symptoms—nausea, vomiting, and headache—highlights the common neurological manifestations of the condition, making this option the most accurate representation of meningitis signs and symptoms compared to the other choices presented.