Mumps is a viral disease which, although generally benign, can lead to serious complications, especially in adults. Vaccination remains the most effective tool for preventing infection and limiting the spread of this disease. In the event of symptoms, it is crucial to consult a health professional for appropriate treatment.
What is mumps?
Mumps is a contagious viral disease, characterized mainly by painful inflammation of the salivary glands, specifically the parotid glands, located on either side of the face. Caused by the mumps virus, the condition is known for symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue and swelling of the parotid glands, which can lead to a characteristic "hamster-face" appearance.
How is mumps transmitted?
Mumps is transmitted by air, via respiratory droplets emitted by an infected person when coughing or sneezing. The virus can also be spread by direct contact with contaminated objects or surfaces, followed by contact with the mouth or nose.
What are the symptoms of mumps?
Classic mumps symptoms include:
These symptoms generally appear two to three weeks after exposure to the virus.
How can mumps be prevented?
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent mumps. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is recommended and widely used in childhood vaccination programs. It is important to complete the vaccination schedule to ensure optimal protection against the disease.
What is the treatment for mumps?
There is no specific treatment for mumps. Management focuses on symptom relief: rest, hydration, and the use of antipyretics and analgesics to control fever and pain. It is also advisable to avoid acidic or overly salty foods, which can aggravate salivary gland pain.
Can I get mumps more than once?
It is rare to contract mumps more than once. Most infected people develop lifelong immunity after their first infection. However, in rare cases, a second infection is possible, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
What are the possible complications of mumps?
Although mumps is often perceived as a benign disease, it can lead to complications, particularly in adolescents and adults. Among the most common complications are:
Vaccination remains the best way to prevent these complications.
Is mumps contagious before symptoms appear?
Yes, a person infected with the mumps virus can be contagious even before symptoms appear. The contagious period generally begins about two days before the glands begin to swell, and can last up to five days after the onset of this symptom. This underlines the importance of vaccination in preventing transmission of the virus.
Can you get mumps even after vaccination?
Although the mumps vaccine is highly effective, no vaccination offers 100% protection. In rare cases, vaccinated people can contract mumps, often in a less severe form than non-vaccinated people. This may be due to an insufficient immune response to the vaccine, or to the attenuation of immunity over time. However, vaccination remains the best defense against the disease.
How can you tell the difference between mumps and other infections?
The symptoms of mumps, such as swollen salivary glands, can resemble those of other infections. However, mumps is distinguished by the specific swelling of the parotid glands, which is not as common in other conditions. In addition, symptoms such as fever, fatigue and headaches, although non-specific, accompanied by this swelling, strongly suggest mumps. An accurate diagnosis can be confirmed by virological tests.
How to manage isolation in the event of mumps infection?
If you are diagnosed with mumps, it's crucial to remain isolated to prevent the virus from spreading. Isolation should last at least 5 days after the appearance of swollen glands. During this period, get plenty of rest, stay hydrated and follow your healthcare professional's advice on symptom management. You should also inform anyone you've been in contact with recently, so that they can keep an eye out for symptoms and take the necessary preventive measures.
