Mumps outbreak in Delhi: Early signs seen in all age groups and preventive tips to follow

Cases of the contagious viral infection, mumps, are increasing in the country and Delhi NCR is witnessing a surge in the last few weeks. This infection targets the saliva making parotid glands, which are present on each side of the face thus making face swelling a classic symptom of the infection. Mumps is highly contagious, spreading through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. It is very important to stay safe from infected individuals.

Early signs of mumps in kids include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Swelling and tenderness of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands located near the ears, are characteristic symptoms. This swelling may cause pain when chewing or swallowing. Additionally, some children may experience earache or jaw pain.

In adults, early signs of mumps are similar to those in children and include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite. However, adults may experience more severe symptoms, such as painful swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands near the ears. This swelling can cause difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking. Some adults may develop experience swelling of the testicles, swelling of the ovaries, meningitis, or encephalitis.

Complications associated with mumps include orchitis (swelling of the testicles) in males, which can lead to infertility, and oophoritis (swelling of the ovaries) in females, potentially affecting fertility. Mumps can also cause meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and encephalitis (swelling of the brain), leading to neurological issues and, in rare cases, death. Deafness and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) are other potential complications.

Preventive tips for mumps include vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which provides immunity against the virus. Ensure children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, typically administered at ages 12-15 months and 4-6 years. Practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces in public areas. Avoid close contact with individuals who have mumps symptoms, and encourage vaccination in communities to achieve herd immunity. Promptly seek medical attention if mumps is suspected to prevent complications and limit the spread of the virus.

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The most effective preventive measure against mumps is vaccination. In India, the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is administered. MMR vaccine is given at 9-12 months and a booster dose is given at 16-24 months. As per experts, low vaccination against mumps is the reason why most of the mumps infected patients in the hospital are between the age of 6-7 years of age.

“Children are more vulnerable to the mumps because their immune systems are still developing. They often socialize in close quarters at preschools and schools, which exacerbates the spread of viruses. Developing appropriate hygiene habits, such as washing your hands frequently and not sharing personal items, is essential to ensuring the health of your children,” said Dr Shreya Dubey - Consultant - Neonatology & Paediatrics, CK Birla hospital Gurgaon.