Mumps in adulthood

Adults may notice headache, muscle aches, poor appetite and a dry or painful mouth before swelling beside the jaw. The illness can involve areas such as the testicles, ovaries, pancreas or the tissues around the brain, although symptoms vary. Fever and swollen glands can have many causes, so examination is needed rather than self-diagnosis. Read more about Mumps, Fever and Swollen Glands.

Rest and drink regularly; soft foods may be easier when chewing hurts. Avoid close contact, kissing and shared utensils while contagious, and tell a clinic before arriving if mumps is suspected. A GP Consultation can review symptoms and exposure. Once the acute illness has settled, ask about MMR Vaccination if your immunisation history is unclear.

Arrange same-day advice for severe or persistent symptoms, dehydration, increasing abdominal pain, testicular or pelvic pain, or a worsening fever. Emergency care is needed for confusion, a seizure, severe headache with neck stiffness, breathing trouble or sudden severe testicular pain.

Ask how the diagnosis will be assessed, which activities to pause, and whether close contacts need vaccination or monitoring advice.