Mumps

What Is Mumps?

Mumps is a contagious viral illness caused by the mumps virus, a member of the paramyxovirus family. It mainly targets the parotid glands, which produce saliva and are located below and in front of each ear.

Before vaccines were introduced, mumps was a common childhood illness. Today, thanks to widespread MMR vaccination, cases are far less frequent but outbreaks can still occur, particularly in communities with lower vaccination rates.

While most people recover fully within a few weeks, mumps can occasionally cause serious complications, especially in adolescents and adults.

What Causes Mumps?

 Mumps is caused by the mumps virus, which spreads through:

• Respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
• Direct contact with saliva (for example, sharing drinks, food or utensils).
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your nose or mouth.
  
  

After exposure, symptoms usually appear 16–18 days later. People are most contagious a few days before and after gland swelling begins, even if their symptoms are mild or not yet visible.

Because of how easily the virus spreads, mumps outbreaks can occur in schools, colleges and other close-contact environments.

Signs and Symptoms of Mumps

 Symptoms of mumps can vary, and some people, especially those who are vaccinated, may have mild or no symptoms at all. Common signs include:

• Swelling and pain in one or both parotid glands (cheeks or jaw)
• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue or weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Pain while chewing or swallowing
  
  

In some cases, mumps can cause complications, especially in teens and adults:

• Orchitis: Painful swelling of the testicles (can rarely affect fertility)
• Oophoritis: Swelling of the ovaries, which may cause abdominal pain
• Meningitis or encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain or spinal cord lining
• Hearing loss: Usually temporary, but can be permanent in rare cases

How Is Mumps Diagnosed?

 A health care provider can often diagnose mumps based on:

• Physical exam: Checking for swelling of the salivary glands.
• Symptom history: Recent exposure or outbreak in the community.
• Laboratory testing:
  • Swab of the throat or inside of the mouth to detect the mumps virus.
  • Blood test to look for mumps antibodies that confirm infection.
    
    

Since other illnesses, like blocked salivary glands or bacterial infections, can cause similar symptoms, testing may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

How to Treat Mumps

There’s no specific antiviral treatment for mumps. Care focuses on easing symptoms and preventing spread.

At-Home Care

• Rest and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Eat soft foods that are easy to chew, like soup or mashed potatoes.
• Apply cold or warm compresses to swollen areas for comfort.
• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) to reduce fever or pain.
• Avoid acidic foods and drinks that can irritate swollen glands.
  
  

Medical Treatment

Most people recover at home within about two weeks. However, seek medical care if you or your child experiences:

• Severe headache or stiff neck
• Persistent vomiting
• Pain or swelling in the testicles or abdomen
• Hearing problems
  
  

Your health care provider may order additional tests or recommend hospitalization in rare severe cases.

How to Prevent Mumps

The best way to avoid getting mumps is by staying up to date with the MMR vaccine. It provides long-term protection against measles, mumps and rubella.

Prevention Tips

• Ensure children get the MMR vaccine at 12–15 months, with a booster at 4–6 years.
• Adults should check with their health care provider if unsure about their vaccination history.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid sharing eating utensils, cups or water bottles.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• If infected, stay home for at least 5 days after symptoms begin to prevent spreading the virus.
  
  

Outbreaks can still occur in close-contact settings, but high vaccination coverage significantly reduces transmission.

If you suspect you or your child has mumps, or has been exposed to someone who does, contact your primary care provider. Early diagnosis can help manage symptoms, prevent complications and reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

At Riverside Health, we're dedicated to compassionate, collaborative care. We provide a wide range of services, from childbirth to end-of-life care, delivering over 2 million services each year. Our integrated network allows us to support you seamlessly through health, illness, recovery, and wellness. With top clinicians and advanced technology, we’re here for you at convenient locations close to home and work. Visit riversideonline.com.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

Virtual Clinic – Schedule through MyChart or click Here to learn more about Primary Care On Demand.

MD Express Urgent Care – Click Here to find a location near you for after-hours care or when your primary care provider is not available. Open 9am-9pm, Mon-Sun.

Sports Medicine Hotline – Call 757-534-6767, 7am-10pm, 7 days a week to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Same day/next day availability in most cases.

If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368