Symptoms of Mumps
Fever, headache, loss of appetite, muscle aches, swollen salivary glands manifest in 12-25 days.
The mumps affects college-aged (18-25) students who haven't had the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine and come in contact with carriers who spread germs on contact.
Acording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, those who have been vaccinated with one dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are 80% safe from infection and those who have had both doses of the vaccines are 90% protected.
Most people born prior to 1957 have a natural immunity to the disease. This is because they probably had mumps as part of their rite of childhood illnesses or developed a natural immunity from exposure. The vaccine was developed in the late 1960s.
The virus is spread by coughing and sneezing and through saliva. Cover your mouth and nose if you are coughing or sneezing. Don't share drinks or eating utensils.
Frequent handwashing will help to prevent the spread of the disease. Always wash your hands after using the bathroom, before preparing food or eating, and if you are coughing or sneezing.
Primary symptoms of the mumps include fever, headache, loss of appetite, muscle aches, followed by a swelling in the salivary glands in the cheeks along the jaw bone and under the ears.
If you suspect you may be infected, contact your physician immediately. Laboratory testing is required and cases must be reported to your local public health department.
The incubation time from the date of onset of symptoms is 16-18 days, and can range from 12-25 days.
More information about mumps and the current outbreaks can be found on the CDC website at www.CDC.gov.
