Spokane County is currently experiencing an outbreak of mumps. The number of cases reported in Spokane County has reached 100, according to health officials and more cases are expected.
Two-thirds of the patients had full vaccination status. Seven out of 10 patients are under the age of 19.
Statewide, The Washington State Department of Health has reported more than 300 cases with the bulk of the cases reported in King and Spokane Counties.
Mumps symptoms include swollen or tender salivary glands, swollen or tender testicles, low fever, tiredness and muscle aches. People usually develop symptoms 14-18 days after being exposed to the virus that causes mumps, but it can be as long as 25 days. Anyone suspected of having mumps should stay home while they’re contagious – five days after swollen glands occur.
Mumps is spread through coughing and sneezing and sharing cups and utensils. While vaccination is the best protection against mumps, even people who are vaccinated can become infected. People should also prevent spreading mumps and other illnesses by covering coughs and sneezes, washing their hands frequently with soap and water, and not sharing food and drinks.
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