1. Causes

Mumps is an acute infectious disease caused by the mumps virus, which belongs to the Paramyxovirus group. The virus is transmitted from person to person through direct contact with saliva or respiratory secretions from an infected individual.

The incubation period is approximately 10–25 days. The contagious period lasts from 2 days before symptom onset until 5 days after the onset of illness.

The peak incidence of mumps usually occurs in late winter and early spring.

2. Symptoms

Most patients experience headache, loss of appetite, and discomfort.

Mild to moderate fever.

Painful swelling in the jaw and facial area usually starts on one side and then spreads to the other side. In 25% of pediatric cases, swelling and pain occur on only one side of the face.

3. Complications

Meningitis: headache, vomiting, meningeal signs.

Inflammation of the reproductive glands: testicles or ovaries.

Acute pancreatitis: severe abdominal pain and frequent vomiting.

Hospital admission criteria:
- High fever that is difficult to reduce.
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Frequent vomiting.
- Severe headache.
- Red and swollen scrotal area.

4. Treatment

Rest.
Soft or liquid diet that is easy to swallow.
Maintain oral hygiene.
Fever reduction and pain relief for swollen parotid glands.
Treatment for orchitis complications: rest, limit physical activity, and use anti-inflammatory medications.

Warning signs requiring immediate medical attention:
- Abdominal pain.
- Vomiting.
- Headache.
- Red and swollen scrotal area.

5. Home Care Instructions for Patients

DO NOT apply or use any medications, ointments, or homemade remedies on the parotid gland area without medical advice.
Self-isolate and avoid close contact with others until 5 days after symptom onset.

6. PREVENTION

Vaccination is the best prevention method: children should receive the combined measles–mumps–rubella (MMR) vaccine at 9–12 months of age.