Reviewed by: Dr Nikita Toshi
Disclaimer: Informative, not prescriptive.
Mumps is a viral infection that spreads through respiratory droplets and saliva of infected person. Mumps infection can affect the salivary glands, meninges, pancreas, reproductive organs and more.
Mumps usually shows up as pain, tenderness, and swelling on one or both sides of cheeks which usually involves the parotid glands.
Symptoms like fever, loss of appetite, weakness, body ache and headache may occur few days before the onset of parotid swelling.
Mumps may present as a mild infection in some while it can also present with moderate to serious illness in others.
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Swollen salivary glands (on cheeks &/or floor of mouth), testicular pain, ear pain, jaw pain, weakness and body ache may also present.
MMR vaccine is known to offer protection against Mumps infection. Chances of severe illness and complications are comparatively lesser in fully vaccinated people.
Infected person should isolate themselves and take rest as per doctor's advise. Follow hand hygiene, distancing and respiratory etiquettes to reduce the spread of infection.
Your doctor will advise you symptom based treatment. Maintain good hydration and nutrition for a speedy recovery.