Mumps

Mumps is a viral infection caused by the mumps (rubulavirus) virus, sometimes called “infectious parotitis” because it often causes swelling of the salivary (parotid) glands in the cheeks and neck.

The hallmark symptom is painful swelling of the face or neck:
• Swelling usually begins on one side, then may affect both sides⁴
• You may also feel earache, find it hard to chew, swallow or speak.

Other common symptoms may start a few days earlier, including:

• Headache
• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue or low energy
• Reduced appetite

Not everyone with mumps will have noticeable swelling, and some may have very mild or no symptoms at all.

Mumps spreads through respiratory droplets — when someone with the virus coughs, sneezes or talks, saliva or mucus can transmit it.

It can also spread indirectly if an infected person touches surfaces and others pick up the virus from those surfaces.

Talk to your healthcare provider if:
• You or your child have facial swelling plus fever, aches or other mumps symptoms.
• You have been in close contact with someone who has mumps, especially if you are unvaccinated or unsure of your vaccination status.

Because mumps is self-limiting (it often resolves on its own), diagnosis is usually clinical, but may be confirmed via blood tests (IgM) or viral PCR in special cases.¹

Because mumps is caused by a virus, there is no specific antiviral cure.

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:

• Rest and avoid strenuous activity¹
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration¹
• Use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease aches, swelling, and fever (do not give aspirin to children)⁴
• Apply a warm or cool compress to the swollen cheeks or neck to lessen discomfort¹
• Eat soft foods that are easy to chew if swelling makes it uncomfortable⁴

Most people recover within about two weeks. If symptoms worsen or complications such as testicular swelling, neurological signs, meningitis, or hearing loss develop, contact a healthcare provider.¹

If you or your child has mumps:

• Stay at home and avoid contact with others for at least 5 days after the swelling begins.
• Wash hands often with soap and water⁴
• Use tissues when coughing or sneezing, then throw them away⁴
• Do not share towels, bedding, eating utensils, cups or cutlery while infectious¹

The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is the most effective way to prevent mumps.¹

However, in South Africa, the full MMR vaccine is not part of the public immunisation programme — it is usually only available in the private sector.¹

During outbreaks, the NICD may recommend an additional MMR dose for close-contact or high-risk groups, although access depends on your healthcare provider.¹

If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, speak with a doctor or nurse to ask whether MMR is appropriate for you.

This brochure is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide a diagnosis or treatment or replace the advice of your doctor, pharmacist, primary health care nurse or other health care provider. You are advised to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your health care provider.