Which symptoms are associated with contagious diseases that can be prevented by the meningococcal vaccine?

The symptoms associated with contagious diseases that can be prevented by the meningococcal vaccine primarily include fever, headache, and stiff neck. These symptoms are indicative of meningitis, which is an infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacterium—the target of the meningococcal vaccine.

Fever is commonly present due to the body's response to infection, while a headache and stiff neck are classic signs of meningitis. The stiff neck, in particular, is associated with meningeal irritation, which is a hallmark of this serious condition. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment, which can significantly impact outcomes in affected individuals.

In contrast, joint pain and fatigue are more general symptoms not specifically indicative of meningococcal infections. Rash and itching or skin lesions could occur in other conditions but are not specific to meningococcal disease and may suggest other infections or allergic reactions rather than meningitis itself. Therefore, the combination of fever, headache, and stiff neck is directly correlated with the contagious diseases that the meningococcal vaccine aims to prevent.