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Mumps
Medical Questions » Mumps
| Name: Mumps |
| Also known as: |
| A viral infection of the salivary glands in the neck that usually occurs in childhood. |
Causes of Mumps
The responsible virus spreads in microscopic droplets of fluid that come from the nose and mouth with every breath. Incubation period is two to three weeks, and the patient is infectious from one or two days before the symptoms appear until all the swelling of the glands has disappeared. An attack usually gives lifelong immunity. |
Symptoms of Mumps
Fever, swollen tender salivary glands just under and behind the jaw, headache, and a general feeling of ill-being. Sometimes one side of the neck is involved, and not the other, then the other side may swell up several days after the first side has subsided. Patients often experience additional pain in the gland if spicy or highly flavored food is eaten, or even smelled. |
Tests for Mumps
None normally necessary, but diagnosis can be confirmed by blood tests. |
Treatment for Mumps
Rest, with aspirin or paracetamol and/or codeine for the pain and fever, but if complications occur, further medical advice should be sought. Exclusion from school is mandatory for the course of the disease. A vaccine available that gives lifelong protection, and is given combined with those against measles and German measles (rubella) at 12 months and 5 years of age.
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Complications of Mumps of its treatment
May be a significant disease, particularly in adults. Inflammation of the brain, testicles and ovaries may occur. The kidneys, heart and thyroid gland may also be damaged. Very rarely, death may occur. |
Likely Outcome of Mumps
Recovery is usually uneventful after an eight to twelve day course. |
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