Mumps Outbreak Continues

Public health officials are investigating 75 cases of mumps across Nova Scotia, as of today, April 13.

The outbreak continues in the Halifax Regional Municipality , with sporadic cases in several other areas. The majority of cases are in the 20-25 age group.

"Mumps has previously been seen as a childhood illness. However, it can sometimes lead to more serious illness," said Dr. Shelly Sarwal, medical officer of health. "That is why it is important for patients to closely follow the instructions of their doctors when they have been diagnosed."

The most common symptoms of mumps include fever, head and muscle aches, and swollen and tender glands at the angle of the jaw. Public Health officials continue to encourage people to see their family doctor if they have symptoms.

All physicians are required by law to report cases of mumps to their local public health office. This process ensures that public health officials are aware of cases and can follow up to see who else may have been exposed or infected.

Mumps is spread by contact such as coughing, sneezing, sharing drinks and kissing. The virus can be spread for about seven days before symptoms appear and up to nine days after. People should not go to school, work, any public places or participate in social activities during this period.

Pregnant women who get mumps are in danger of having a miscarriage, premature or early labour, and low birth weight babies. Pregnant women who are in contact with anyone with mumps should contact their family doctor.

To avoid spreading the mumps, or any other disease:

• wash hands often or use hand sanitizer
• do not share drinking glasses or eating utensils
• cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow

For more information on mumps,visit www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/mumps.html.