By NewsDesk  @infectiousdiseasenews

Officials with the University of North Carolina- Greensboro (UNCG) reported a confirmed mumps case yesterday in the school community. All close contacts have been contacted by the Guilford County Department of Health. UNCG Student Health Services is collaborating with Guilford County Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health to take precautions and increase awareness of the mumps virus.

Infographic aimed at college students depicting symptoms of mumps and steps they can take to protect themselves.

Mumps is a contagious viral infection that is transmitted person to person through coughing, sneezing, or talking. The most common symptoms include low-grade fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, loss of appetite, and swollen or tender salivary glands along the jaw or behind the ears.

While vaccination against the mumps is the best protection against the mumps infection, vaccinated individuals may still become infected. Anyone diagnosed with mumps or suspected of having mumps should stay isolated for five days after the onset of symptoms.

To prevent against further infections:

• Wash hands frequently and efficiently. When unable to wash with soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing; use your upper sleeve to cover your cough, not your hand.
• Avoid sharing food, drinks and items such as eating utensils, cigarettes or vaping devices.
• Avoid participating in any activities that may result in saliva exposure.

UNCG Student Health Services will be holding MMR booster vaccine clinics on the following dates/times:

  • Wednesday, November 6th 9am-3pm
  • Thursday, November 7th 9am-3pm
  • Friday, November 8th 9am -3pm