Information about Mumps

Although mumps is usually mild in children, it can be a devastating disease in adults. It can cause testicle damage in adult males and inflamed ovaries in adult women.. This contagious viral disease is spread through air-borne water droplets. Although it is known as a disease which targets the salivary glands, it can also spread to other organs. After around 16 days the patient’s neck will swell below the ears, and cheeks may also be swollen. Fever and headaches are common. In rare cases the patient may be left with brain damage and deafness.

MMR should not be given to sick children, although a mild cold is not a problem usually. If your baby suffers from a compromised immune system, or is prone to allergies or has had a blood transfusion, you should discuss this vaccination with your doctor before it is administered. It is also important to discuss subsequent inoculations with him if the reaction to the first one is severe.