What is a sign of possible meningitis in a child?

• A. Severe headache
• B. Rash
• C. Stiff neck
• D. Fever

Answer: (C)

A stiff neck is a classic sign of meningitis in a child. This symptom often indicates irritation of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. When the meninges become inflamed, as seen in meningitis, the neck stiffness can be both painful and result in an inability to flex the neck normally due to muscular tension.

In addition to a stiff neck, other common indicators of meningitis may include severe headache, fever, and rash, which may present in conjunction with the stiff neck, but the hallmark feature specifically associated with meningitis is the stiffness itself. The combination of a stiff neck and high fever can often prompt immediate medical evaluation due to the potential danger of the illness.