DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Infectious Disease

Mumps

MODERATE

A viral infection affecting the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands. Causes painful swelling of the cheeks and jaw. Can lead to serious complications including orchitis, meningitis, and deafness. Vaccine-preventable through MMR.

Global Affected

500.0K

Countries

20

Symptoms

Swollen/painful salivary glands
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Pain while chewing
Swollen testicles (orchitis)
Swollen ovaries (oophoritis)

Treatment Options

Supportive care
Pain relievers
Cold/warm compresses
Soft foods
Hydration
Bed rest
Scrotal support (orchitis)
Anti-inflammatories

Risk Factors

1Unvaccinated or undervaccinated
2Close contact with infected person
3Crowded conditions
4College dormitories
5Travel to endemic areas
6Waning vaccine immunity (15+ years post-vaccination)

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Clinical diagnosis
  • 2RT-PCR (oral swab)
  • 3Serology (IgM antibodies)
  • 4Viral culture
  • 5Imaging (if complications suspected)

Prognosis

Excellent. Self-limiting, resolves in 2 weeks. Orchitis in 1/3 of post-pubertal males (rarely causes infertility). Meningitis usually self-limiting. Deafness rare but permanent. Pancreatitis usually mild.

Prevention

  • MMR vaccination (2 doses)
  • Third dose during outbreaks
  • Isolation of infected persons
  • Good hygiene practices
  • Travel vaccination

Research Status

MMR vaccine highly effective but immunity may wane. Outbreaks in vaccinated populations (waning immunity). Supportive care only. Research on third booster dose and improved vaccines ongoing.

Sources

  • https://www.cdc.gov/mumps
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mumps
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.