Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus known as paramyxovirus. It is easily spread from person to person through infected saliva, and can be contracted by inhaling droplets of saliva from an infected person who has just sneezed or coughed, or by sharing utensils or cups with someone who has mumps. The virus usually takes 2 to 3 weeks to manifest, and symptoms include pain, tenderness, and swelling in one or both parotid salivary glands (area of the cheeks and jaw). The swelling usually peaks in 1 to 3 days and then goes away over the next week.
Inflamed tissue pushes the angle of the ear up and out, and the angle of the jaw below the ear is no longer visible. Other salivary glands (submandibular and sublingual) located under the floor of the mouth may also swell, but they do so less often (10%).Unfortunately, there is no cure for mumps, and it can cause serious health problems. The best way to help protect against mumps is to get vaccinated with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Vaccination is especially important for people who are at high risk of contracting mumps, such as those who work in healthcare settings or attend college. If you think you may have been exposed to mumps, it's important to contact your healthcare provider right away.
They can help you determine if you need to be tested for mumps or if you need to take any other steps to protect yourself and others from getting sick.
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