Mumps Information
What is mumps?
Mumps is an infection of the salivary glands that is caused by a virus. Symptoms may include fever, swollen and tender glands at angle of the jaw, headache and muscle aches.
Most people recover from the illness but mumps can be serious. Those who become very ill may have encephalitis (an infection of the brain), meningitis (a swelling of the covering of the brain), arthritis and deafness. One in three men may get painful, swollen testicles. Although very rare, some of these men may end up with infertility.
What is the treatment?
There is no specific treatment for mumps. (Antibiotics do not work against viruses.) Persons suffering with fever, pain, muscle aches, etc, may take acetaminophen (Tylenol) products according to their age and weight. ASA (aspirin) should never be given to infants and children.
What should I do if I think I have mumps?
Call your health care provider for an appointment - to limit the possibility of spread to others who may have medical conditions making them more vulnerable. If you need to go to emergency, please advise the staff the reason for your visit and maintain your distance from other people waiting to be seen.
What should I do if I am being investigated for or have been diagnosed with mumps?
You should stay home from work, school; avoid public places and other social settings. Avoid close contact with others for nine days after your symptoms started, or when the symptoms are no longer present, which ever is longer.
Can I spread the infection to others?
Yes. Mumps is spread by contact with the discharges from the nose and throat. Coughing, sneezing, sharing drinks and kissing are all ways mumps can be spread to others. The virus can be spread for about seven days before symptoms appear and up to nine days after.
What can I do to not spread the infection to others?
- Frequently wash your hands or use waterless hand sanitizers if soap and water are not available.
- Do not share drinking glasses or eating utensils.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
- Stay home, avoid public places and social settings.
What should I tell my friends, family members, co-workers or other close contacts?
Ask them to watch for symptoms of mumps and to see a health care provider immediately if they develop symptoms. Suggest they speak to local health nurses about mumps vaccinations.
Except in special circumstances, if your contacts are not ill, they may continue their usual activities (work, play, school or social events).
For more information, please visit the Public Health Agency of Canada website.