What is mumps?

Mumps is an illness with an acute onset of unilateral or bilateral, tender, self-limited swelling of the parotid or other salivary gland, lasting 2 days, without other apparent cause.

How it is transmitted

• The virus is spread by contact with respiratory secretions.
• Period of infectivity is 7 days before to 9 days after onset of parotid swelling.
• The most infective period is 1–2 days before, up to 5 days after onset of parotid swelling.
• Incubation period: 12–25 days after exposure

What are the possible Complications?

Up to 35% of adults infected might develop Orchitis, which is an inflammation of the testes in males. Sterility is uncommon. This is fortunately very rare in children.

Isolation

Children should not return to school until at least 9 days after the onset of parotid swelling.

Is there a vaccine available and what are the recommendations for its use?

• A single 0.5-mL SC injection of live mumps vaccine (usually given together with measles and rubella, the MMR) at 12–15 months usually confers long-lasting immunity
• A second vaccination is recommended between 4 and 6 years of age.
• Links of the MMR vaccine to autism have not been substantiated

Should we be worried?

There is no need to worry as long as you receive your vaccinations at the scheduled time.

Are there any other ways of prevention?

• Regular hand washing with water and soap
• Avoid sharing utensils and towels
• Clearing the surfaces like toys and door knobs with soap and water or disinfectants