What should you know about mumps?

Mumps inflames the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands in front of and below the ears. The face or neck may look swollen, chewing or swallowing may hurt, and the mouth may feel dry. Fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen glands can accompany the swelling; some infected people have mild or no symptoms.

The virus spreads through saliva and respiratory droplets during close contact. Less commonly, it can cause inflammation in the testicles, ovaries, pancreas, brain, or the membranes around the brain. Vaccination lowers the risk of infection and outbreaks.

Call a GP or clinic before attending if you have jaw swelling or may have been exposed. Rest, drink fluids, choose soft foods, and use a cool compress for comfort. Follow advice about suitable pain or fever relief, particularly for children, pregnancy, or liver or kidney problems.

Avoid sharing cups, cutlery, towels, or toothbrushes. Stay away from school, work, and close contact for the period advised by your clinician. Check whether you and close contacts are up to date with MMR vaccination; vaccination is for prevention and does not treat established mumps.

Seek emergency help for a severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, seizure, fainting, breathing difficulty, or repeated vomiting. Contact a clinician promptly for severe testicular or lower abdominal pain, significant dehydration, worsening swelling, or persistent fever. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, reduced immunity, or a recent exposure.

Ask whether your symptoms need testing, how long to stay away from others, which pain relief is suitable, and whether a partner or household contact needs vaccination advice. If swelling affects eating or drinking, ask for specific hydration and nutrition guidance.