In a follow-up to an earlier report, two cases of mumps in college-aged individuals have been reported in the Treasure Valley. These cases are connected to the ongoing University of Idaho outbreak. This brings the total number of cases to 16.
Mumps is a virus that spreads when an infected person sneezes and coughs. It can also be spread by direct contact with saliva. The most noticeable symptom is swelling of a gland under the ear. Other symptoms can include fever, body aches, headache, and decreased appetite. Symptoms generally appear 16-18 days after exposure but up to half of people with mumps have very mild or no symptoms. Anyone who suspects they may have mumps should contact their medical provider.
“Mumps can lead to serious complications in some people. Although no vaccine is perfect, receiving two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best way to protect yourself against becoming ill,” said Sarah Correll, Staff Epidemiologist with the Central District Health Department. The first dose of MMR vaccine is recommended when children are 12-15 months old, followed by a second dose when they are 4-6 years old.
CDHD provides vaccines, including the MMR vaccine to children ages 0 through 18. For more information, call 327-7450. To find out if your child is up-to-date on their MMR or other vaccines, call your medical provider.
