Which symptoms are associated with Kuru, also known as the "laughing disease"?

Kuru, known as the "laughing disease," is a neurodegenerative disorder that is primarily associated with prion infection. Its symptoms involve severe neurological manifestations, including tremors, impaired coordination, and behavioral changes, which can sometimes include fits of laughter, giving rise to its nickname.

Headache and joint pain, as indicated in the correct answer, are indeed symptoms that can overlap with the early stages of the disease as it progresses. In Kuru, these symptoms stem from the degenerative effects that the prion proteins have on the brain and nervous system.

Other symptoms, such as fever and chills, shortness of breath, and nausea and vomiting, are not typical for Kuru and are more associated with different medical conditions. For instance, fever and chills relate to infections, while nausea and vomiting can arise from gastrointestinal issues or other systemic health concerns. The focus on headache and joint pain uniquely relates to the neurological damage caused by prions, making it a fitting choice to describe symptoms associated with Kuru.