Maryland health officials have issued an alert following a rise in mumps cases, with 26 reported through February 19, including 19 confirmed infections and seven probable cases, according to the Maryland Department of Health. This increase comes as public health agencies nationwide continue to monitor a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases.
Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that as of late February, 11 jurisdictions have documented a total of 34 cases. While mumps was once a common childhood illness, widespread vaccination dramatically reduced its incidence.
Before the first vaccine was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1967, mumps was a routine part of childhood in the United States. The CDC reports that the number of cases in the U.S. Fell from 152,209 in 1968 to 231 in 2003. However, cases and outbreaks have been increasing since 2006, prompting renewed attention to prevention and public health response.
Mumps is a viral infection caused by the mumps virus, a member of the paramyxovirus family, explained Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician and clinical associate professor at George Washington University. “It primarily affects the salivary glands, especially the parotid glands located just below and in front of the ears,” she said. “The infection spreads through respiratory droplets and saliva, meaning mumps can be transmitted when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or shares drinks or utensils.”
A key concern is that individuals can spread the virus before they even know they are sick. People are generally considered contagious several days before the onset of gland swelling and for about five days afterward. This makes transmission relatively rapid in close-contact settings like homes, schools, sports teams, and college dormitories.
The most recognizable symptom of mumps is swelling of one or both parotid glands, which can cause puffy cheeks and tenderness along the jawline. This swelling is often accompanied by other non-specific viral symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Some people may also experience pain when chewing or swallowing. Symptoms typically appear between two and three weeks after exposure.
While the illness is usually mild in children, with some experiencing only a low-grade fever and slight swelling, or even no symptoms at all, adolescents and adults are more likely to develop more pronounced symptoms and complications. Swelling can be more painful, fever higher, and systemic symptoms like fatigue more significant. This age-related difference is one reason why outbreaks in high schools and universities are of particular concern.
Although many cases resolve without lasting effects, mumps can lead to serious complications. One well-known complication is orchitis, or inflammation of the testicles, which can be quite painful and, rarely, may lead to decreased fertility. Women can develop oophoritis, inflammation of the ovaries, and/or mastitis, inflammation of breast tissue. While these conditions are uncomfortable, they are less commonly associated with long-term consequences.
Mumps can also affect the central nervous system. Meningitis, or inflammation of the lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord, occurs in a slight percentage of cases. Encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain itself, is rare but potentially fatal. Permanent hearing loss is another rare but serious complication. Unvaccinated individuals are at the highest risk of both infection and complications.
There is no specific antiviral medication to target the mumps virus. Treatment focuses on supportive care, meaning relieving symptoms while the body clears the infection. This includes rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and discomfort. Warm or cold compresses can help alleviate swelling of the glands.
Because mumps is contagious, isolation is essential. Individuals diagnosed with mumps should stay home and avoid contact with others for five days after the onset of symptoms. This precaution reduces the risk of spreading the virus in schools, workplaces, and other community areas. Anyone experiencing severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or testicular pain should seek immediate medical attention, as these symptoms may indicate complications requiring further evaluation.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective at preventing mumps, though We see somewhat less protective against mumps than against measles or rubella. Two doses of MMR are estimated to be approximately 86% effective in preventing mumps infection; one dose is approximately 72% effective. The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, the first between 12 and 15 months of age and the second between four and six years.
No vaccine is 100% effective, meaning some vaccinated individuals may still become infected. These breakthrough infections are typically milder and less likely to cause complications. Outbreaks can occur in settings where people are in close contact for extended periods, even when overall vaccination coverage is high. Universities are a classic example. Immunity may also wane over time, meaning individuals vaccinated in early childhood may have reduced protection as young adults. When the virus is introduced into a closely connected community, it can spread among susceptible individuals.
It’s important to note that outbreaks are much more limited and less severe than they would be without vaccination. High community vaccination rates help contain the spread and protect those who cannot be vaccinated, such as young infants or people with certain medical conditions.
Generally, people born before 1957 are presumed to have immunity, given how prevalent mumps was before that date. Those born in or after 1957 should have documentation of vaccination. Adults who are unsure can check their vaccination records or consult with their healthcare provider. In some cases, a blood test can assess immunity.
Certain groups are considered at higher risk and should ensure they are fully vaccinated, including college students, healthcare personnel, and international travelers. During a mumps outbreak, public health authorities may recommend a third dose of the MMR vaccine for individuals identified as being at higher risk due to their exposure. This additional dose aims to boost short-term immunity and help control the outbreak. Receiving the MMR vaccine is safe and effective for individuals lacking documentation and without contraindications. Maintaining up-to-date vaccinations not only protects the individual but also contributes to the protection of the community.
Recent reports demonstrate that mumps has not been eradicated. Even relatively small increases in cases serve as a reminder that vaccination and a timely public health response remain essential for keeping preventable diseases at bay.
The-CNN-Wire
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