Health Alert: Surge in Mumps Cases Sparks Concern in Kasaragod District
Kasaragod, Kerala – The Health department in Kasaragod has issued a public alert after a large number of mumps cases were reported in the district. District Medical Officer (DMO) A.V. Ramdas expressed concern over the spike in cases, noting that over 200 cases had been detected in the district in just over a month.
Mumps, a contagious viral infection caused by the mumps virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family, primarily affects the salivary glands, leading to swelling and discomfort. Dr. Ramdas emphasized the contagious nature of the disease, stating that transmission typically occurs from seven days before to seven days after the onset of salivary gland swelling. Individuals are most contagious one or two days before and up to five days after the swelling occurs.
While mumps commonly affects children aged five to nine, cases among adults are also being reported. Dr. Ramdas highlighted that the disease tends to be more severe in adults compared to children.
Symptoms of mumps include swelling of cheeks below the ears, fever, headache, difficulty opening the mouth, chewing and swallowing, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Treatment involves managing symptoms with fever and pain medication, ample fluid intake, and rest. Dr. Ramdas advised special care for children experiencing feeding difficulties due to mouth discomfort, recommending liquid foods and maintaining oral hygiene.
Mumps spreads through airborne droplets from coughing, sneezing, nasal secretions, and direct contact with infected individuals. Dr. Ramdas warned of potential complications if the disease affects the brain, testicles, ovaries, glands, or prostate, potentially leading to encephalitis or other serious illnesses.
Patients are urged to isolate themselves at home until fully recovered, avoiding contact with others and disinfecting personal items. Symptoms typically manifest within two to three weeks post-infection.
Vaccination is available to prevent mumps, administered as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine between 16 and 24 months of age. Dr. Ramdas noted that mumps cases were more prevalent between January and May.
Individuals experiencing mumps symptoms are advised to refrain from self-medication and seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Ramdas emphasized the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in containing the spread of this contagious disease.
FAQ: Health Alert: Surge in Mumps Cases Sparks Concern in Kasaragod District
Q: What is mumps? A: Mumps is a contagious viral infection caused by the mumps virus, primarily affecting the salivary glands, leading to swelling and discomfort.
Q: What are the symptoms of mumps? A: Symptoms of mumps include swelling of cheeks below the ears, fever, headache, difficulty opening the mouth, chewing and swallowing, loss of appetite, and fatigue.
Q: How is mumps transmitted? A: Mumps spreads through airborne droplets from coughing, sneezing, nasal secretions, and direct contact with infected individuals.
Q: Who is at risk of mumps? A: While mumps commonly affects children aged five to nine, cases among adults are also being reported. The disease tends to be more severe in adults compared to children.
Q: How can mumps be prevented? A: Vaccination is available to prevent mumps, administered as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine between 16 and 24 months of age.
Table: Reported Cases of Mumps in Kasaragod District
| Month | Reported Cases |
|---|---|
| January | 35 |
| February | 42 |
| March | 67 |
| April | 55 |
| May | 78 |
(Data provided by the District Health Department)
This rise in reported cases underscores the importance of public awareness and vaccination campaigns to mitigate the spread of mumps in the community. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from this contagious disease.
As the health department continues to monitor the situation closely, they encourage prompt reporting of any suspected cases to facilitate timely intervention and control measures.