4-11-06

Mumps

The largest outbreak of mumps in nearly two decades is being seen in Iowa this year. And the disease could spread to neighboring states including Illinois.

The number of cases of mumps has increased dramatically in Iowa in recent months. Normally, about five cases of mumps per year are seen in that state, but this year, there have been more than 300 cases. Dr. Subhash Chaudhary, professor and director of pediatric infectious diseases at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, says the outbreak may be an extension of an epidemic in England. He explains some of the symptoms of mumps.

SOUND BITE: "Mumps is a virus infection. Virus typically enters through the respiratory tract. It multiplies in the glandular tissues, so that’s why it’s in the salivary glands, especially the parotid gland, which is just under the ear, gets involved most often. In addition, Children can have fever, some headache, poor appetite. There could be some vomiting."

Dr. Chaudhary says the mumps vaccine is effective 95 percent of the time, but 5 percent of people vaccinated do not develop immunity to the disease. He recommends taking these precautions against mumps.

SOUND BITE: "The best is to take the vaccine. Other ways is that if we know somebody has mumps, one should avoid close contact with that person because the virus is either direct spread of secretions or virus is in the oral secretions – sneezing, coughing . . ."

Dr. Chaudhary also suggests washing hands frequently as a precaution against the virus. Anyone who has symptoms of mumps should see their family doctor or pediatrician for examination and possible treatment.

This is Ruth Slottag at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield.