The State University of New York, University at Albany (UAlbany) is currently dealing with eight confirmed cases of mumps in the student body. The affected students are being cared for and are isolated from the rest of the student body while they recover.

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

UAlbany is working closely with the Albany County Department of Health (ACDOH) to reduce the chances of the disease from spreading further. To receive the maximum protection, two doses of the mumps-containing vaccine or MMR (measles, mumps and rubella vaccine) are recommended. While the MMR vaccine helps prevent disease, it is not 100 percent effective. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the mumps component of the MMR vaccine is about 88 percent effective when a person gets two immunizations.

On Tuesday, April 25, UAlbany and the Albany County Department of Health held a clinic that provided free vaccinations for more than 100 students.

For anyone who missed the clinic, the University has been providing students with free MMR vaccinations at Student Health Services over the past week. Students who have not had two MMR vaccinations are encouraged to make an appointment at Student Health Services to receive the MMR vaccination.

Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus that can pass from one person to another through saliva, nasal secretions or close personal contact. While some people infected have no signs or very mild ones, the most common symptoms are fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and loss of appetite, swollen or tender salivary glands under the ears or jaw on one or both sides of the face.

Mumps Prevention Tips:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
  • Cover your mouth with a tissue or your elbow when you sneeze or cough
  • Do not share drinks, food, utensils, or any personal items that come in contact with saliva

If you are a student and have symptoms consistent with mumps, contact Student Health Services at 518-442-5454 or contact your health care provider. In addition, please notify Student Health Services as soon as possible.

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