Mumps is a contagious viral infection that commonly affects children. It is best known for causing swelling of the parotid glands, the salivary glands located below the ears. Although mumps is usually mild, understanding its symptoms, treatment and prevention can help parents manage the illness and avoid complications.
What is it?
Mumps is caused by the Paramyxoviruses and spreads easily among children, especially in schools, daycare centres and hostels. While it mostly affects children, unvaccinated adults can also develop the infection.
How does it spread?
The mumps virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through close contact or by sharing utensils, cups or towels. Because children often interact closely with each other, the virus can spread quickly in group settings.
Common symptoms
The most noticeable symptom is swelling near the jaw or below the ears. Other symptoms may include:
Painful swelling of the salivary glands
Fever
Headache
Pain while chewing or swallowing
Difficulty opening the mouth
Fatigue and general discomfort
The swelling usually begins on one side of the face and may later appear on the other side.
Possible complications
Most children recover from mumps without serious problems. However, complications can occur in rare cases, including:
Orchitis (inflammation of the testicles) in boys
Oophoritis (inflammation of the ovaries) in girls
Meningitis, an infection of the brain’s protective covering
Rarely, hearing loss
Treatment
There is no specific antiviral medication for mumps. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:
Ensure adequate rest
Give fever-reducing medicine as prescribed by a doctor
Provide soft foods and plenty of fluids
Use warm or cold compresses to reduce swelling
If symptoms worsen or last longer than expected, consult a paediatrician.
Prevention
The most effective way of prevention is vaccination. The MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) is usually given in two doses starting from nine months of age. Parents should also encourage good hygiene habits such as frequent handwashing, covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
The writer is a consultant paediatrician at SUT Hospital, Pattom