Mumps case confirmed in Utah County

This file photo shows the MMR vaccine. Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia

UTAH COUNTY, Utah, May 15, 2019 (Gephardt Daily) — A mumps case in an unvaccinated adult has been confirmed in Utah County, officials said Wednesday.

In order to protect the identity of the individual, no further information about them will be released, said a news release from theĀ Utah County Health Department.

“Mumps is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, headache and swelling of the salivary glands (parotitis),” the news release said. “Other symptoms associated with mumps include low-grade fever, fatigue, muscle aches and loss of appetite.”

Complications can include redness and swelling of the testicles, inflammation of the brain or membrane covering the spinal cord, inflammation of the ovaries in females, loss of pregnancy and permanent hearing loss.

After a person is exposed to mumps, symptoms usually appear 16 to 18 days after infection, but can range from 12 to 25 days. There is no specific treatment for mumps and anyone with symptoms should contact their healthcare provider for evaluation.

“Mumps is spread through saliva or mucus and objects or surfaces touched by an infected person,” the news release said. “Mumps does not linger in the air, so people at highest risk are those who share personal items with or who are within three feet of an infected individual.”

To help reduce the risk of mumps, take these simple precautions:

  • Do not share food, drinks, water bottles, utensils or other personal items that may contain saliva.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wash your hands before eating or before touching your mouth.
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough. If a tissue is not available, sneeze or cough into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.
  • Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that may be contaminated with germs. Clean and disinfect communal surfaces frequently.
  • Get vaccinated with two doses of MMR vaccine if you haven’t already.
  • People who get mumps should stay home for five days after onset of symptoms and limit contact with others in their household.

“Mumps can be prevented through vaccination,” aid Dr. David Flinders, medical director for UCHD, by way of the news release. “Individuals should review their medical records and ensure they are up to date on all vaccines including two doses of the MMR vaccine, which protects against mumps.”

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