• Inflammation of the lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord
• Symptoms may include sudden onset of neck stiffness and pain, headache, fever and confusion
• Can have similar symptoms as viral encephalitis
• Caused by various viruses
• Commonly spread by infected animals and insects, breathing in infected droplets from the air, ingesting contaminated food and water or sexual contact
• Affects males and females
• Can occur at any age but more common in young children and infants
• May be severe but usually resolves with treatment in healthy individuals
• May be life threatening for neonates or those with a weakened immune system

Rest

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 NAUSEA

• Drink clear or ice-cold drinks (avoid drinks high in sugar)
• Eat light, bland foods (crackers or plain bread)
• Avoid fried, greasy, or sweet foods
• Eat slowly and eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Do not mix hot and cold foods
• Avoid activity after eating
• Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Diphenhydramine
  • Cyclizine
  • Dimenhydrinate
  • Meclizine

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