Adult Meningitis Symptoms

About 25% of those who develop meningitis have symptoms that develop over 24 hours. The remainder generally become ill over one to seven days. Occasionally, if someone has been on antibiotics for another infection, the symptoms can take longer to develop or may be less intense. If someone is developing fungal meningitis (most commonly someone who is HIV positive), the symptoms may take weeks to develop.

• Classic symptoms
  • Headache
  • Stiff neck (nuchal rigidity)
  • Fever and chills
  • Vomiting
  • Fear of bright lights (photophobia)
  • Confusion
  • Seizures (These occur in about a third of those with meningitis.)
  • A recent upper respiratory infection (for example, cold, sore throat)

• Less common symptoms
  • Localized weakness or loss of strength or sensation, especially in the face
  • Joint swelling and pain in one or more joints
  • A new rash that often looks like a bruise