Mumps is a contagious viral infection that can cause painful swelling of the parotid glands (glands located between the ears and the jaws). It is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through contact with contaminated items such as tissues, drinking glasses, and dirty hands.
Usually, infected people are contagious a day or two before the first symptoms appear, although they can spread the virus any time from 7 days before to 9 days after symptoms appear.
Symptoms
Facial pain
Swelling of the parotid glands
Fever and headache
Sore throat
Reduced appetite
Swelling of the temples or jaw
Additional symptoms in males that may be associated with this disease: Testicle pain, Testicle lump, Scrotal swelling
Treatment and Management
Apply hot or cold compresses to swollen areas
Gargle with warm salt water to soothe sore throat
Drink plenty of liquids, but avoid acidic drinks, such as orange juice and lemonade as they can increase the release of enzymes from the parotid glands.
Eat a soft, bland diet.
Mumps can be prevented by vaccine. The vaccine is usually given as part of the mumps-measles-rubella (MMR) vaccine series. The MMR series is given to children beginning at 12-15 months, and again at 4-6 years old or 11-12 years old.
Source: www.thefilipinodoctor.com
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