Mumps

Mumps is a highly contagious infection caused by a virus with an incubation period of 14-18 days from exposure to onset of symptoms. Rarely, serious complications can develop from the mumps including meningitis, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), deafness, orchitis (inflammation of the testicles) and impaired fertility. Death from mumps is very rare.

The mumps virus replicates in the upper respiratory tract and spreads through saliva or mucus from the mouth, nose or throat. An infected person can spread the virus by coughing, sneezing or talking; sharing items such as cups or eating utensils with others; and touching objects or surfaces with unwashed hands that are then touched by others. Mumps can spread before the salivary glands begin to swell and up to five days after the swelling begins.

The classic symptoms of mumps are puffy cheeks and swollen salivary glands, which generally develops on the third day of illness. Some people who get mumps have very mild or no symptoms. Most people with mumps recover completely in 10 to 14 days. Other usual symptoms that may be mistaken for a cold or flu are:

If you believe that your child may have the mumps, visit your nearest RediClinic. Diagnosis can be made by determining recent exposure and usually without the need for laboratory tests. If there is uncertainty about the diagnosis, a test of saliva or blood may be done.

Vaccination is the best way to prevent mumps. This vaccine is included in the combination measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. The best defense is offense, and that means being vaccinated. RediClinic offers MMR protection for you and your family.

To learn more about the MMR vaccine, who should get it and when, visit RediClinic MMR Vaccine.

Resources:

http://www.cdc.gov/mumps/vaccination.html

http://www.medicinenet.com/mumps/article.htm

http://www.cdc.gov/mumps/about/signs-symptoms.html