A recent outbreak of the mumps virus has hit several states across the country. This recent outbreak is the largest one this country has seen in a decade. With nearly 3,000 cases, mumps are spreading and mainly hitting college campuses.
The mumps virus can be hard to detect sometimes and those who are infected may not know so until up to 25 days after they've caught the disease. Mumps are well known for causing the jaw and cheeks to swell. There are a range of symptoms to watch out for as well, including fever, body aches, loss of appetite, and swollen salivary glands. These glands can be found under the ears. If you notice these symptoms in yourself or others, contact a doctor immediately.
The virus is mainly hitting college campuses, but it may hit other schools as well. It's mainly hitting college campuses though, due to the fact that they are tight, enclosed environments with several people. Mumps can be spread in various ways. The mumps can be spread via coughing, sneezing, sharing cups/eating utensils, or by touching something with unwashed hands. It is best to make sure that you always wash your hands and to cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing. Be cautious when sharing drinks or eating utensils with others because other diseases and infections can be transmitted this way as well.
If you have already received the MMR vaccine, it's a good idea to check into getting it again. The first dose is about 78% effective, while the second dose rises to be about 88% effective. Even if you've received both doses, it's still best to talk to your doctor about the possibility of receiving a third dose. This vaccine has been said to be less effective the longer one goes once they receive a dose. It's better to be safe than sorry, which is why it's good to just check into getting another dose, even if your doctor does not think that it's possible.
The mumps is a highly contagious virus, and everyone should take as much caution as possible in their day-to-day lives to avoid contracting it. While it can be treated and gotten rid of in a few weeks time, it's still in everyone's best interest to make sure that everything they're doing is sanitary, because no one wants to get sick. With finals week still approaching for some schools, it's especially important to make sure that your hands are always washed and that you don't share drinks or eating utensils with anyone. If you notice any of the symptoms, be sure to contact your doctor immediately.
