Which of the following is NOT a possible sign of meningitis in adults?

Shortness of breath is not commonly recognized as a sign of meningitis in adults, making it the correct choice for this question. Meningitis primarily affects the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord and its symptomatic presentation typically involves neurological signs or symptoms.

A stiff neck, severe headache, and seizures or fits are all classic indicators of meningitis. A stiff neck often indicates irritation of the meninges, the membranes affected during meningitis, and is frequently observed when meningeal irritation is present. Severe headache is another hallmark symptom, as inflammation and increased intracranial pressure can lead to significant pain. Seizures or fits can occur due to the irritation or pressure on the brain from the infection and inflammation associated with meningitis.

In this context, it's essential to understand that while shortness of breath can occur in various medical conditions, it is not directly related to meningitis itself, which primarily showcases signs of central nervous system involvement.