A case of mumps is suspected in the Hudson School District according to Cleveland.com. An investigation by the local and state health departments is pending.
Mumps is a contagious virus that affects the parotid glands just below the ears. It is transferred from person to person by coughs, sneezes, unwashed hands, and saliva. Mumps ran rapid during the early to mid-20th century. Vaccines were developed to prevent not only mumps but measles and rubella hence the MMR vaccine. Every child should have been vaccinated before they reach the age of 12. The State of Ohio Department of Education requires students to be vaccinated by the time they enter seventh grade.
Mumps Symptoms and Signs
- “Early symptoms are uncommon but may include fever, loss of appetite, achiness, and headache. Temperature is moderately high, usually lasting for three to four days.
- Swelling of the glands under and in front of the ear usually starts on one side and then progresses to the other side rapidly. Swelling may last from seven to 10 days. Eating or drinking acidic or citric foods causes much discomfort.
- Other symptoms may include testicular pain (in males), abdominal pain, seizures, stiff neck, and difficulty swallowing.
- Orchitis is the most feared complication of mumps. This condition causes severe pain, swelling, and tenderness in a male's testicles. Orchitis is mostly on one side but can involve both testicles.” www.emedicinehealth.com
Treatment for mumps is run-its-course; however, the symptoms are treated with over-the-counter non-aspirin pain medication and plenty of fluids. Do not give aspirin to children with a virus.
The prognosis for mumps, according to the Cleveland Clinic, is good. Most children recover without any serious complications. However, children who have experienced puberty and pregnant women should take precautions when there are suspected cases of mumps. Rare and serious complications can be meningitis, encephalitis, pancreatitis and deafness.