mumps (1)

1. Managing Mumps: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention An unexpected mumps outbreak has caused chaos among the populace, with a surge in cases reported across multiple Indian states. According to government data as of March 2024, there have been 15,637 reported cases this year. Mumps disease is a highly contagious viral infection primarily affecting the salivary glands, notably the parotid glands beneath the ears. It spreads through respiratory droplets when infected individuals cough or sneeze, leading to complications such as testicular or ovarian inflammation, meningitis, and potential deafness. Children who are unvaccinated and between the ages of 2 and 12 are most usually affected by mumps. Even after receiving a vaccination to prevent it, adults and teenagers can still contract the mumps. This happens because, after a few years, the vaccine’s immunity wanes. Being completely vaccinated remains the best defense against mumps infection, nevertheless. Vaccination is key to preventing mumps, with both children and adults advised to receive recommended doses. Practicing good hygiene, including frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with infected persons, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or

2. sneezing, also aids in prevention. Swift identification of symptoms and isolation of infected individuals are crucial preventive measures. Mumps is caused by a virus that spreads through respiratory droplets expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus can also spread through contact with items people use, such as straws, drinking glasses, and soiled tissues. Any surface they come into contact with can transmit the mumps to other people if they don’t wash their hands. It’s possible for mumps to be contagious before swelling appears and for up to 5 days after swelling begins. When the mumps is at its most contagious, it lasts for two days before symptoms appear and for several days after they do. Even those without symptoms can spread the illness to others who are sick. Symptoms typically appear 2 to 3 weeks following exposure to the virus, with an incubation period ranging from 2 to 3 weeks. While some individuals may exhibit no symptoms or experience only mild ones, others may develop flu-like symptoms initially, including fever, headache, muscle aches, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Within a few days, swelling of the salivary glands becomes apparent, often affecting one or both glands on the sides of the face. This swelling may be accompanied by pain or tenderness around the affected areas. In rare cases, glands below the floor of the mouth may also swell. Diagnosis can be challenging due to mild or absent symptoms, underscoring the importance of early recognition and isolating infected individuals to prevent transmission. Some cases may develop complications like testicles pain & swelling in males & ovaries inflammation (oophoritis) in females. Severe complications include pancreatitis or meningitis. Is Mumps Contagious? How long does mumps last? Experiencing Mumps ? Visit our cardiologist right away! GET A FREE SECOND OPINION For more details visit : yashodahospitals.com