Mumps epidemic: what to know

Mumps spreads through respiratory droplets and saliva during close contact, such as talking, coughing, sharing drinks or kissing. Clusters may occur where people spend time together, including households, schools and workplaces. Swelling near the jaw, fever, headache and tiredness are useful symptoms to report, but other infections can look similar.

An outbreak increases the chance of exposure; it does not establish that every swollen gland is mumps. A clinician may advise testing, temporary separation from others, or contact with local public-health services.

If you have symptoms, phone a GP before visiting and avoid close contact until you receive advice. Do not share cups, cutlery, towels or lip products. Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and improve ventilation in shared rooms. Rest and drink fluids while recovering.

Review your immunisation record with a clinician. MMR vaccination helps protect against mumps, measles and rubella, but it does not treat an illness already underway. Follow any exclusion advice given by your doctor or public-health team.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for fever with facial or jaw swelling, worsening pain, dehydration, or symptoms after a known exposure. Seek urgent help for severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, seizures, breathing difficulty, or severe testicular or lower abdominal pain.

Ask whether your symptoms fit mumps, whether testing is appropriate, how long you should stay away from others, and whether your household needs vaccination advice.