Mumps is a contagious disease caused by the mumps virus. Symptoms typically occur 16 to 18 days after exposure to the virus and resolve within two weeks. About one third of infections are asymptomatic. Complications include deafness and a wide range of inflammatory conditions, of which inflammation of the testes, breasts, ovaries, pancreas, meninges, and brain are the most common. Testicular inflammation may result in reduced fertility and, rarely, sterility.
The virus spreads easily from person to person through infected saliva. If you're not immune, you can contract mumps by breathing in saliva droplets from an infected person who has just sneezed or coughed. You can also contract mumps from sharing utensils or cups with someone who has mumps.
A person is most contagious a few days before the symptoms develop and for a few days afterwards. During this time, it's important to prevent the infection spreading to others, particularly teenagers and young adults who have not been vaccinated.
There's currently no cure for mumps, but the infection should pass within 1 or 2 weeks.
Treatment is used to relieve symptoms and includes:
1-Getting plenty of bed rest and fluids.
2-Using painkillers, such as ibuprofen and paracetamol – aspirin should not be given to children under 16.
3-Applying a warm or cool compress to the swollen glands to help relieve pain.
If you have Mumps, then a visit to an infectious disease specialist is highly recommended.
Contact an
Infectious disease specialist