Mumps
What is it?
Mumps is a very contagious virus that usually spreads through respiratory droplets (coughs and sneezes). Mumps symptoms usually appear 2 – 3 weeks after you come into contact with someone who is sick. Mumps infections typically begin with a few days of fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, and loss of appetite. These symptoms are followed by swelling of salivary glands, causing puffy cheeks and a swollen jaw which may be painful. Thankfully, there’s a vaccine to protect against mumps.
Why is the vaccine important?
There is no specific treatment for mumps. Most people with mumps recover fully. However, mumps can sometimes cause complications including:
- Inflammation of the testicles (orchitis) which can lead to a decrease in testicle size
- Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) and
- inflammation of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord (meningitis)
- Inflammation of the ovaries (oophoritis) and/or breasts (mastitis)
- Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
- Deafness
Some vaccinated people may still get mumps, but symptoms are milder than in unvaccinated people.
Progress
Mumps cases have decreased 99% in the U.S. since vaccination efforts began in 1967. Even though cases have significantly reduced, outbreaks still occur in settings where lots of people are in close contact. This includes college campuses, large gatherings, and close-knit communities. That’s why it’s important to maintain high immunization levels.
Vaccine Recommendations
Children should get 2 doses of MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Children should receive the first dose at 12 – 15 months of age and the second at 4 – 6 years old.
Side Effects
Vaccines, like any medicine, can cause side effects (also known as "adverse reactions"). Most side effects are mild and go away within a few days. Common side effects include fever, headache, or body aches. They can also include redness where a shot was given and tiredness. Side effects are normal. They can even be a good sign that the immune system is working to build antibodies that will fight off future infections!
For the MMR vaccine, side effects, though rare, may also include swelling of glands in the neck or cheek. Another side effect specific to the MMR vaccine is temporary joint pain or stiffness. These most frequently occur in adolescent or adult women. More severe reactions are very rare but can include seizures followed by a fever and a temporary low platelet count which could cause bruising or bleeding. Those who have severe immune problems are advised not to get the MMR vaccine as it could cause a life-threatening infection.
Remember, vaccines are continuously studied. They are also closely monitored for safety. Research continues to show that vaccines are safe, and the benefits outweigh the risks. The risk of a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine is rare (about 1 in 1 million). The choice not to vaccinate is ultimately riskier. Not vaccinating may lead to catching a potentially deadly disease.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about vaccine side effects. In the event of a serious allergic reaction, call 9-1-1.
