Mumps infection symptoms: what to look for

Mumps affects salivary glands, often causing swelling in front of or below the ears. The swelling may affect one or both sides and can make chewing or swallowing uncomfortable. Fever, headache, muscle aches and low energy may occur. Some infected people have mild symptoms, while others have no obvious swelling.

These features can also occur with other viral illnesses or causes of swollen glands. A symptom is not proof of mumps. A clinician may use your examination, exposure history and testing to clarify the cause.

Phone a GP before visiting so the team can reduce exposure to other patients. Rest, drink fluids and choose foods that are easy to chew. Avoid sharing cups, cutlery or towels, and follow advice about staying home and limiting close contact. Do not start antibiotics without a prescription.

Record when the swelling, fever or other symptoms began and whether you had contact with a suspected case. Read more about [Mumps](/conditions/mumps/) and arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if symptoms persist or worsen.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing or swallowing, confusion, collapse, a seizure, severe headache with neck stiffness, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange prompt medical review for severe ear or testicular pain, hearing changes, or rapidly increasing swelling. General information about [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) and [Swollen Glands](/symptoms/swollen-glands/) may help you describe what you are experiencing.

Do my symptoms fit mumps or another infection? Should I be tested? How long should I avoid close contact? What can I take for pain or fever, and which warning signs should prompt urgent review?