Originally published 14 April 2004

Mumps

The University has been advised by the Consultant in Communicable Disease Control for the Health Protection Agency that there are still a number of confirmed and unconfirmed cases of mumps within the University community.

The Health Protection Agency Unit in Coventry and Warwickshire has also observed a rise in the incidence of mumps in the region (click here to review). The Health Protection Agency have stated that it is very important to ensure that all who can be immunised are up to date with their vaccinations. Ideally, two doses of MMR are recommended for good protection. There is no upper age limit.

If you are unsure whether you have been immunised against mumps please check with your family or medical practitioner.

Any University members who have not been immunised are advised to seek advice from their own medical practitioner as soon as possible.

University members with young families are particually advised to take their children for their routine immunisations according to their scheduled appointments and ensure that immunisation is not uncecessarily delayed.

Symptoms

NHS Direct's Encyclopedia describes the symptoms:

"The best known symptom is swollen salivary glands that cause one or both sides of the face, below and just in front of the ear to swell up and become painful. This lasts for about three or four days. There may be pain when swallowing, sore throat and fever."

"However up to half of all people with mumps develop no symptoms, and in most other people the symptoms are fairly mild."

"If symptoms do appear, they usually begin 2 to 3 weeks after infection. The patient is contagious for up to 7 days before symptoms first appear and for about 10 days afterwards."

For more information on the symptoms of Mumps see the Symptoms page of the NHS Direct website

For more information on Mumps generally, including details of causes and prevention see the NHS Direct website