Mumps: A Parent's Guide to Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Mumps is a contagious disease caused by the mumps virus, a paramyxovirus. It's characterized by swelling of the salivary glands, most noticeably the parotid glands located on either side of the face, giving the infected person a distinctive "hamster face" appearance. Once a common childhood illness, mumps cases have significantly decreased due to widespread vaccination. However, outbreaks can still occur, particularly among unvaccinated individuals. This blog post will equip you with the knowledge to recognize mumps in your child, understand treatment options, and ensure they're properly vaccinated to prevent infection.

Swollen Cheeks, Feverish Feels: Recognizing the Signs of Mumps

Mumps spreads through respiratory droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Here are the telltale signs to watch out for:

• Symptoms:

• Fever: A low-grade fever is a common first symptom, typically lasting a few days.

• Headache: Headache may accompany the fever.

• Muscle aches: General muscle aches may also be present.

• Parotid gland swelling: Painful swelling of the parotid glands (located in the cheeks, below the ears) is the most recognizable sign, usually occurring a few days after the fever.

• Loss of appetite: Loss of appetite is common due to discomfort while chewing.

Progression of Mumps:  Symptoms typically develop within 14 to 25 days of exposure to the virus. The swelling of the parotid glands usually lasts for a few days and subsides on its own.

When to See a Doctor:

While mumps is usually a mild illness that resolves on its own, seek medical attention if your child experiences:

• Severe pain or difficulty swallowing due to swollen glands

• High fever (above 102°F or 38.9°C)

• Signs of dehydration (decreased urination, dry mouth, lethargy)

• Testicular pain or swelling in boys (orchitis)

• Ovarian pain in girls (oophoritis) - less common but can occur

Treating the Discomfort: Mumps Management

There's no specific medicine to treat mumps itself. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and making your child feel better:

• Plenty of fluids: Encourage fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if mouth sores or difficulty swallowing make drinking uncomfortable. Offer cool liquids like water, Pedialyte, or diluted fruit juices.

• Rest: Encourage plenty of bed rest to allow the body to recover.

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help manage fever and discomfort (always follow dosage instructions for your child's age).

• Soothing sore throats: Cool mist from a humidifier can ease throat discomfort. Offer popsicles or chilled yogurt to numb mouth sores. Topical pain relievers (like Orajel) may also provide temporary relief (consult your doctor for appropriate options).

Prevention is Key: Protecting Your Child from Mumps

The best way to prevent mumps is vaccination. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Here's what you need to know:

• MMR vaccine schedule: The CDC recommends children get two doses of the MMR vaccine:

• The first dose between 12 and 15 months old

• The second dose between 4 and 6 years old

The 2 Sick 4 School App Can Help!

Concerned about mumps? The 2 Sick 4 School App can be your resource for all things related to childhood illnesses! Download the app today (available on the Apple App Store: 2 Sick 4 School on the App Store (apple.com)) and find valuable information on mumps, including:

• Detailed explanation of symptoms, causes, and transmission of mumps

• Importance of vaccination (MMR vaccine) and maintaining high vaccination rates

• Information on managing symptoms and preventing complications

• When to seek medical attention for mumps symptoms

Remember, mumps is usually a mild illness, but vaccination is the best way to prevent it. Don't wait! Get your child vaccinated according to the recommended schedule to ensure they're protected from mumps and other preventable diseases.