Hi, I have read your question carefully and I should say that in the presence of fever, headache and stiffness of the neck, bacterial meningitis should be suspected and formally ruled out by the analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained through a lumbar tap. In this procedure, a needle is inserted in-between the lumbar vertebrae at the lower back to withdraw a sample of CSF, the same fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Your recent UTI may be the possible source of infection. Besides bacteria, meningitis can be causes by viruses and other microbes. Other signs of meningitis may include nausea, vomiting, photophobia, confusion and coma. Acute bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency because it can progress rapidly and eventually lead to complications and death if not treated on time. As your treating physician, I would proceed to do a lumbar tap if it is safe and send the CSF for analysis including culture. While awaiting the results, I would place you on broad spectrum antibiotics and observe you in the hospital. I hope this helps you. Be free to contact me again in case of further concerns.