There has been an outbreak of Mumps in the HSE (Health Service Executive ) Western Region according to the executive
There has been an increase in the number of people aged from 15-years-old to 29-years-old old being diagnosed with mumps in the HSE Western region, with 45 patients diagnosed in the past seven weeks according to the HSE.
Mumps is an acute viral illness that causes fever, headache and painful swollen salivary glands. Mumps is spread from person to person by coughs and sneezes. It can also be transmitted through direct contact with saliva.
People remain unwell for an average of seven to 10 days. Complications can include meningitis and inflammation of the testicles, which can affect fertility in later life. Less common complications can include inflammation of the pancreas, deafness, arthritis, and inflammation of the heart.
Treatment for mumps is focused on symptom relief with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter painkillers advised.
According to the HSE: "Immunisation with MMR vaccine is the best protection. Being up to date with two doses of MMR vaccine is recommended. If people have not had (or are not absolutely certain if they have had ) two doses of MMR vaccine they should be vaccinated. Having an extra dose of MMR vaccine will not do any harm. Checking for immunity would cause a delay and is therefore not recommended. It can take up to 28 days before people will be protected by the MMR vaccine."
To prevent further infections with mumps, people are advised to stay away from school, college, or work for five days following the onset of their symptoms.
