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The information provided by The Pediatric Group, PLLC website is information of a general nature and is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be relied on for personal medical reasons and should not be relied upon as providing specific medical advice or for diagnosis or treatment. All information contained on this website is presented as is, without any warranties of any kind, express or implied.
Please note that visiting this website alone does not establish a physician-patient relationship with any physician engaged by The Pediatric Group, PLLC. You should consult your own physician for specific advice for your own personal situation.
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MumpsMumps - the disease of lumps!
The mumps vaccine was first introduced in the United States in 1967. Since that time, almost all children have received this immunization as an important part of their periodic well-child care. The vaccine is routinely first administered at age 12-15 months, with a booster given between the ages of 4-6 years. The State of Oklahoma requires that children entering kindergarten have received both doses. However, our state does permit parents to refuse to immunize their children, and so some children have not been vaccinated against the disease. Since 2001, an average of 265 mumps cases have been reported each year in the entire United States.
Mumps has been in the news lately because of a large outbreak that began in December 2005 in Iowa. As of April 12, 2006, there have been 605 cases reported to the Iowa Department of Public Health. Interestingly, the majority of cases have been in persons aged 18-25 years of age who have been vaccinated (see "Who can get mumps?" below for more information). There have also been cases reported in Kansas, Missouri, and six other midwestern states. A representative from our office spoke with Renee Powell, an epidemiologist for the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH). Ms. Powell stated that (as of April 20, 2006) OSDH is investigating 10 cases of probable mumps in Oklahoma. However, she noted that the virus in these cases does not appear to be linked to the virus identified in the other Midwestern states. However, OSDH does encourage children and adults through age 30 years who have not received the recommended two dose series to complete the vaccinations.
What is mumps?
Mumps is an infection caused by the mumps virus that can result in swelling of the salivary glands (the cheek and jaw area) and fever. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle aches, generally feeling rotten, and loss of appetite. Swelling can occur on one or both sides of the face/neck. However, one-third of infected people do not have any symptoms at all.
What are the complications of mumps?
Severe complications are rare. However, the CDC website notes that mumps can cause:
- Inflammation of the brain and/or tissue covering the brain and spinal cord (encephalitis/meningitis).
- Inflammation of the testicles (orchitis).
- Inflammation of the ovaries and/or breasts (oophoritis and mastitis).
- Spontaneous miscarriage particularly in early pregnancy.
- Deafness, usually permanent.
Who can get mumps?
Anyone who is not immune from either previous mumps infection or from vaccination can get mumps. Among vaccinated persons, the MMR vaccine has shown an effectiveness of approximately 80% after one dose, and limited data suggest approximately 90% effectiveness after two doses. Since the vaccine is not 100% effective, some cases can occur in vaccinated persons. The vaccine has not been shown to be effective as a treatment after exposure to mumps. It takes approximately 2-4 weeks after vaccination for the full potential of effectiveness to be achieved.
How is mumps spread?
Mumps is spread by mucus or droplets from the nose or throat of an infected person, usually through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with these fluids. The CDC website also notes that surfaces of items (such as toys) can also spread the virus if someone who is sick touches them without washing their hands, and someone else then touches the same surface and then rubs their eyes, mouth, nose, etc.
When is a person with mumps contagious?
The Oklahoma State Department of Health Fact Sheet states that "the maximum time a person can transmit the mumps virus is two days before through 4 days after symptoms begin." Persons with mumps should not attend school or work for at least five days after symptoms start.
Is there treatment for mumps?
There is no specific treatment for mumps. Patients usually take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and muscle aches as with any viral illness,  along with rest and fluids. If the patient becomes seriously ill and seeks medical attention, be sure to call the doctor's office in advance so you or your child does not sit in the waiting room for a long time and possibly infect others.
Where can I get more information?
The CDC website has extensive information about mumps.
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