Mumps Fact Sheet

Mumps is a contagious viral infection caused by the mumps virus, a member of the paramyxovirus family. It spreads through respiratory droplets or saliva when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or shares items like drinks or utensils. Once the virus enters the body, it primarily infects the salivary glands, especially the parotid glands near the jaw, causing the characteristic swelling of the cheeks and jaw. Mumps can also spread before symptoms appear, which helps the virus transmit easily between close contacts. Vaccination with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent infection.

How Does Mumps Spread?

Mumps spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets from the mouth, nose, or throat of an infected person. This commonly occurs when someone with mumps coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus can also spread when someone touches surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touches their mouth or nose.

Symptoms of Mumps

Symptoms of mumps usually begin with general signs of illness such as:

• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Low-grade fever
• Muscle aches or fatigue

The most recognizable symptom is parotitis, or swelling of the salivary glands beneath the ears. However, not everyone with mumps develops this symptom. Some people may only experience mild symptoms or none at all.

What Complications Arise From Mumps?

While most people recover fully, mumps can sometimes lead to complications, particularly in adolescents and adults. These may include:

• Viral meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord coverings)
  
• Orchitis (testicular inflammation) in post-pubertal males
  
• Inflammation of the ovaries or breast tissue in females
  
• Hearing loss in rare cases
  

Complications are uncommon but highlight the importance of prevention through vaccination.

How Can I Prevent Mumps?

The best protection against mumps is vaccination with the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Two doses of the vaccine provide the most effective protection. Maintaining high vaccination coverage helps prevent outbreaks and protects the community.

Who Should Get the MMR Vaccine?

The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is recommended for children, adolescents, and adults who do not already have immunity to these diseases. Vaccination helps protect both individuals and the community from outbreaks.

Children:

• The first dose is recommended at 12–15 months of age.
• A second dose is typically given at 4–6 years old, before starting school.

Adolescents and Adults:

• Anyone born in 1957 or later should have documentation of vaccination or other proof of immunity.

Higher-Risk Groups:

Some adults may need two doses of MMR if they are at higher risk of exposure, including:

• College or university students
• Healthcare personnel
• People traveling internationally
• Individuals living in a community experiencing an outbreak

Your healthcare provider or local health department can help determine if you or your family members need the MMR vaccine.

What Can I Do to Protect Myself from Mumps?

The best way to protect yourself from mumps is through vaccination with the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Two doses of the vaccine provide the strongest protection and help prevent the spread of the disease in the community.

You can also reduce your risk of infection by practicing good hygiene habits:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid sharing drinks, utensils, or personal items with others.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

If you develop symptoms such as fever, headache, or swelling of the glands near the jaw or ears, stay home and contact your healthcare provider or local health department for guidance. People with mumps should isolate for 5 days after the salivary glands begin to swell to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Additional Resources