What is Mumps?
Mumps is a contagious viral illness best known for causing swelling of the parotid glands (salivary glands located near the ears). This swollen-cheek appearance is often what people associate with the disease.
Key Symptoms
Symptoms usually appear 2–3 weeks after exposure and can include:
Swollen, painful salivary glands (usually one or both sides of the face)
Fever
Headache
Fatigue
Muscle aches
Loss of appetite
Pain while chewing or swallowing
Some infected people (especially vaccinated ones) may have mild or no symptoms.
How It Spreads
Mumps spreads through:
Respiratory droplets (coughing, sneezing, talking)
Sharing cups/utensils
Close contact with saliva
People are most contagious a few days before and after the salivary glands swell.
Complications
Complications are uncommon but can include:
Orchitis (testicle inflammation) in males
Oophoritis (ovary inflammation)
Meningitis or encephalitis
Hearing loss (rare and usually temporary)
Pancreatitis
Vaccination greatly reduces complication risk.
Treatment
Mumps is a viral infection, so there is no specific antiviral treatment. Care is supportive:
Rest and fluids
Over-the-counter pain relievers/fever reducers (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
Cold or warm packs for gland pain
Soft foods to reduce chewing discomfort
Prevention
The best protection is the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella).
It is typically given in two doses, which provides about 88% protection against mumps.
