What should you know about mumps?

Mumps commonly affects the salivary glands beside the cheeks and below the ears, causing tender swelling and discomfort when chewing or swallowing. Fever, headache, tiredness and muscle aches may accompany it. Some infections have few or no obvious symptoms, yet the virus can still spread through respiratory droplets and saliva.

Mumps is different from every cause of swollen glands. A clinician may consider your symptoms, exposure history and vaccination record, then decide whether testing or monitoring is needed. Avoid sharing cups, cutlery or towels while infection is suspected.

Contact a GP before arriving so the practice can advise on reducing exposure to others. Rest, drink fluids and choose soft foods if chewing is uncomfortable. Simple pain or fever relief may help when suitable for you; follow the label and ask a pharmacist if you are unsure. Check whether you and close contacts are up to date with MMR vaccination.

Seek urgent help for severe headache with neck stiffness, confusion, a seizure, breathing difficulty, dehydration, severe abdominal pain or sudden hearing changes. Prompt assessment is also needed for testicular or ovarian pain and swelling. Contact a GP for fever with swollen glands or symptoms after known exposure, particularly during pregnancy or when immunity is reduced.

Ask how long to stay away from work, school or close contacts, whether testing is useful, which pain relief is suitable, and whether household members need vaccination advice. Take your immunisation record if available.