Several states have reported a surge in cases of mumps in the last month. As per government data for 2024, the case tally for mumps has reached 15,637, as of March this year. High numbers of cases have been reported in Kerala, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and Delhi NCR. Keeping these growing number of cases in mind, we have listed some preventive measures that you must follow and also symptoms of mumps to watch out for.
Mumps Cases On the Rise In Several States
Mumps is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the salivary glands, especially the parotid glands located beneath the ears. It can spread easily through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing of infected individuals. It usually runs for five to seven days and resolves without major complications. However, it can cause inflammation of the testicles or ovaries, meningitis, and deafness in some cases if proper treatment is not provided.
It is preventable by a vaccine which is usually administered between the age of nine months and 4.5 years. Although there is a vaccine available for mumps, it is not included in the nation’s universal immunisation programme (UIP) due to its low mortality rate.
States like Kerala, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Delhi NCR have seen a surge in mumps cases over the past few weeks. This outbreak is alarming and has raised concerns amongst the authorities and medical experts.
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Symptoms & Preventive Measures To Stay Safe
Mumps is an acute viral infection and it usually affects children and young adults. For better prevention, here are some symptoms of mumps you should watch out for.
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Fever
- Pain while chewing
- Salivary gland inflammation
It is to be noted that mumps symptoms usually appear 16 to 18 days after exposure to the virus. Individuals tend to experience non-specific symptoms like fever and headache, while swelling and more prevalent symptoms follow in a few days in most mumps cases. Therefore, it is best to consult a doctor if symptoms like fever and fatigue persist for more than a few days.
Here are some preventive measures that you can follow to stay safe from mumps –
- First and foremost, routine immunisation is crucial. Make sure children and adults receive the recommended vaccine to protect them against mumps.
- Maintain good hygiene and sanitation. Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid contact with infected individuals. Wear a mask if contact is necessary.
- Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
- If symptomatic, ensure appropriate isolation.
- Seek immediate medical advice once symptomatic.
Please keep these preventive measures in mind and check with your doctor in case you see any of these symptoms.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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