• Inflammation of the spine due to an infection
• Symptoms may include back and neck pain
• Most commonly caused by bacterial but may be caused by a fungus
• Commonly spread through the blood from conditions such as intravenous drug use, injury or surgery
• Affects males and females but more common in males
• Can occur at any age but more common in older adults
• May be mild to severe leading to the destruction of the spine
• Life threatening if left untreated

• Avoid smoking
• 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