Most cases occur in children under five years, but the disease can occur at any age.
The extremely young and old have the highest risk for long term brain damage following meningitis. The cause of meningitis may be from bacteria, virus, protozoa, yeast, or fungus. Meningitis may begin with a respiratory illness or sore throat. It can progress very rapidly. In infants, the soft spot on the head may bulge and the child may have a continuous shrill cry.