Mumps is a contagious viral illness that typically causes a painful swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands, which are located on the sides of the face, below and in front of the ears. While it was once a common childhood disease, its incidence has been significantly reduced due to widespread vaccination.
Causes of Mumps
Mumps is caused by the mumps virus, which is a type of paramyxovirus. The virus spreads easily from person to person through:
- Respiratory droplets: When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, they release tiny droplets containing the virus into the air. Others can become infected by breathing in these droplets.
- Direct contact with saliva: The virus can be spread through kissing or sharing items that have an infected person’s saliva on them, such as cups, utensils, or water bottles.
- Contaminated surfaces: You can also get mumps by touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your face.
People are most contagious a few days before their salivary glands swell and for up to five days after the swelling begins.
Prevention of Mumps
The most effective way to prevent mumps is through vaccination.
- MMR Vaccine: The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is part of the standard childhood immunization schedule. Two doses are recommended for the best protection. The first dose is typically given between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second is given between 4 and 6 years of age.
- Maintaining good hygiene: In addition to vaccination, practicing good hygiene can help prevent the spread of the virus. This includes:
- Washing your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
- Avoiding sharing items like cups, utensils, and water bottles.
- Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that are touched often.
- Isolation: If you or your child has mumps, it’s crucial to stay home and avoid close contact with others to prevent spreading the infection. This is particularly important for five days after the swelling of the salivary glands begins.
Treatment for Mumps
There is no specific medical treatment or cure for mumps. Since it is a viral infection, antibiotics are not effective. Treatment focuses on managing the symptoms until the illness runs its course, which usually takes about two weeks.
To relieve symptoms, you can:
- Rest: Get plenty of rest, especially during the initial days of the illness.
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) can help reduce fever and relieve pain. Note: Never give aspirin to children with a viral illness, as it can cause a serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.
- Soothing compresses: Applying a warm or cool compress to the swollen salivary glands can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Hydration and soft foods: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Eating soft foods that are easy to chew can also be helpful, as chewing may be painful. Avoid acidic foods or juices (like orange juice or lemonade) that can irritate the glands and cause more pain.
- Seek medical attention for complications: While mumps is often a mild illness, it can lead to serious complications, especially in adolescents and adults. Contact a doctor immediately if you or your child experiences:
- A severe headache or a stiff neck.
- Seizures.
- High fever.
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Pain or swelling in the testicles.
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