What are classic symptoms of a meningococcal infection?

The classic symptoms of a meningococcal infection include sudden onset fever, neck stiffness, photophobia (sensitivity to light), and a petechial rash. This combination of symptoms is indicative of meningitis, which is often caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. The sudden onset of fever typically occurs as the body responds to the infection, while neck stiffness arises due to inflammation of the meninges (the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord). Photophobia can result from irritation of the meninges and is a common symptom of meningitis. The petechial rash, which appears as small, red or purple spots on the skin, is caused by bleeding under the skin and is particularly associated with severe cases of meningococcal disease.

Other options represent symptoms that are characteristic of different medical conditions. High blood pressure, severe headache, blurred vision, and nausea might be observed in conditions like hypertension or migraines. Chest pain, shortness of breath, cough, and fever could signal a respiratory illness or pneumonia. Loss of consciousness, slurred speech, weakness on one side, and confusion are common signs of a stroke or transient ischemic attack but are not specific to meningococcal infections. Each of these sets of symptoms