CDC, in collaboration with public health officials in numerous states in the Northeast, continues to investigate a multi-state mumps outbreak. Most of the current cases were among Hasidic (Jewish) populations in New York and New Jersey. (This outbreak is also occurring among members of the same population in Israel.) Rhode Island has not documented a case associated with this outbreak.
The onset of Passover (March 30 – April 5) means there is potential for travel across the country and internationally, thus increasing the risk of spreading mumps. All Rhode Islanders, both children and adults, should make sure they are up to date on their measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination before traveling and/or gathering for the upcoming holiday.
Mumps is a virus that initially can cause symptoms of fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness and loss of appetite. These symptoms are usually followed by the painful swelling of the salivary glands under the ears or jaw on one side or both sides of the face. Anyone who has these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.
Mumps is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The spread of mumps can be prevented by: --Washing your hands frequently with soap and warm water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand gel. --Not sharing eating utensils. --Cleaning surfaces that are touched frequently (doorknobs, railings, phones, keyboards).
For more information, call HEALTH’s Information Line at 222-5960 or visit: http://www.cdc.gov/mumps.