Which of the following is a hallmark symptom of bacterial infections?

Bacterial infections often lead to gastrointestinal symptoms as a primary manifestation, with diarrhea and cramping being particularly notable. These symptoms occur because certain bacteria, such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter, infect the intestinal tract, causing inflammation and disrupting normal digestive processes. The presence of diarrhea results from the body’s response to expel the offending bacteria, while cramping typically results from the inflammatory response and irritation in the intestines.

The other symptoms listed can be associated with various types of infections, but they do not primarily define bacterial infections. High fever and fatigue are general symptoms that can arise from many illnesses, not just bacterial infections. Respiratory symptoms are often more indicative of viral infections or specific bacterial infections affecting the respiratory tract. Likewise, skin rashes are commonly associated with allergic reactions or viral illnesses rather than serving as a hallmark of bacterial infections. Thus, diarrhea and cramping stand out as defining symptoms for gastrointestinal bacterial infections.