MUMPS

Overview

      

A viral infection that affects the salivary glands that's easily preventable by a vaccine.

Mumps affects the parotid glands, salivary glands below and in front of the ears. The disease spreads through infected saliva.

Very rare

Fewer than 100 thousand cases per year (India)

Preventable by vaccine

Treatable by a medical professional

Requires a medical diagnosis

Lab tests or imaging often required

Spreads easily

Short-term: resolves within days to weeks

HOW IT SPREADS

By airborne respiratory droplets (coughs or sneezes).

By touching a contaminated surface (blanket or doorknob).

By saliva (kissing or shared drinks).

Requires a medical diagnosis

Some people experience no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they include swollen, painful salivary glands, fever, headache, fatigue and appetite loss.

Can have no symptoms, but people may experience:

Pain areas: in the abdomen, muscles, neck, pelvis, or testicle

Whole body: chills, fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, or malaise

Throat: difficulty swallowing or soreness

Also common: dry mouth, headache, hearing loss, neck swelling, swollen lymph nodes, or swollen salivary glands

Treatment consists of preventative measure

Treatment focuses on symptom relief. Recovery takes about two weeks. The disease can be prevented by the MMR vaccine.