• Inflammation of the brain
• Symptoms may include fever, headache, confusion, light sensitivity and may develop neck stiffness
• Can have similar symptoms as viral meningitis
• Caused by different types of viruses such as the mumps virus
• Commonly spread by breathing in infected droplets from the air, contact with contaminated food and water or through organ transplants and blood transfusions
• Can also be spread through a bite from an infected animal or insect such as ticks and mosquitoes
• Affects males and females but more common in females when caused by the mumps virus
• Can occur at any age but more common in children and young adults
• May be mild but more commonly severe resulting in long-term symptoms
• More severe in infants and the elderly
• May be life threatening if left untreated

• Rest
• Increase your fluid intake
• Maintain a healthy diet

FOR FEVER

• Apply cool cloth to forehead or armpits
• Drink plenty of fluids (especially water)
• Avoid alcohol, tea and coffee as these drinks can cause slight dehydration
• Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Acetaminophen
  • Ibuprofen
  • Aspirin (Do not give to children or adolescents)

FOR PAIN

• Apply hot or cold packs to the area
• Relaxation techniques
• Distraction
• Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Acetaminophen
  • Ibuprofen