• Bacterial infection of the lungs causing a severe pneumonia
• May also involve the intestines, kidneys or nervous system
• Symptoms may include shortness of breath, fever, cough, muscle aches, headaches and diarrhea
• Spread through breathing in infected droplets in the air, most often involving air conditioners
• Affects males and females but more common in males
• Can occur at any age but more common in middle age
• May be mild to severe and life threatening

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

FOR COUGH

• Increase fluids (especially water)
• Suck on cough drops or hard sweets (candy)
• Use a cool air humidifier in room
• Avoid lung irritants such as smoke, household cleaners or allergens
• Over-the-counter cough medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Guaifenesin
  • Dextromethorphan