If you had mumps, can you get it again?

Swelling near the jaw, fever and tiredness can occur with mumps, but several other infections can cause similar symptoms. A previous diagnosis may also have been uncertain if testing was not done. Vaccination lowers the chance of mumps and helps protect communities, yet no vaccine removes every possibility of infection. A clinician may consider your symptoms, exposure history, vaccination record and testing when deciding whether mumps is likely.

Contact a GP promptly if you develop new swelling near the cheeks or jaw, fever or painful swollen glands after contact with someone who may have mumps. Avoid close contact, sharing drinks and crowded settings until you receive advice, because mumps can spread before and after swelling begins. Ask about testing, symptom relief and whether your vaccination record needs review. See Mumps, Fever and Swollen Glands for related information.

Seek urgent medical help for severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, repeated vomiting, seizures, severe testicular or lower abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing. These symptoms need prompt assessment for complications or another serious illness. Call ahead before attending a clinic so infection-control advice can be arranged.

Ask whether your symptoms fit mumps, whether testing is needed, how long to limit contact, and whether you need MMR Vaccination or a GP Consultation.