Red flags The following findings are of particular concern: Altered mental status Headache, stiff neck, or both Petechial rash Hypotension Dyspnea Significant tachycardia or tachypnea Temperature > 40 ° C or < 35 ° C Recent travel to an area where serious diseases (eg, malaria) are endemic Recent use of immunosuppressants Interpretation of findings The degree of elevation in temperature usually does not predict the likelihood or cause of infection.