As of February 10, 2017, at least 15 college campuses in Missouri had reported a suspected mumps case during the past six months. As we know, college students are at a higher risk for contracting mumps than the general population because they are more likely to have congregate living arrangements, such as a residence hall or shared house. Mumps have been circulating on college and university campuses in Missouri since Fall Semester 2016. The largest number of cases at one campus is at the University of Missouri-Columbia, with 334 confirmed and probable cases reported as of February 8, 2017. Fourteen other Missouri campuses have had at least one case reported during this time frame. Missouri State had two reported cases in December 2016.
It’s important for students to understand mumps and to take precautions in their every day life to stay healthy. You, as a family member, are key to getting this important information out to your student.
The Missouri Department of Higher Education has partnered with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) to share helpful information that encourages students to protect themselves from contracting mumps and spreading the virus to others. Please share the following with your student :
Disease Information
Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus that is spread through contact with an infected person’s saliva, or spit. It is commonly passed through coughing, sneezing, or talking. It can also be spread through contact with objects that others have touched with unwashed hands, or that come in contact with saliva, like eating utensils.
The most recognizable symptom of mumps is parotitis, or swelling of the glands around the jaw. Other symptoms include: pain with opening or closing the jaw, fever, fatigue and malaise, headache, and earache.
Treatment for mumps involves reducing symptoms through hydration, rest, and fever/pain reliving medications, but the only way to cure it is to wait for the body to fight off the infection. Most people with mumps recover completely within a few weeks.
Prevention
The best way to prevent mumps is to get the measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine, if your student hasn’t already had two doses and does not have a medical reason not to get the shot. Your student’s medical or shot records should show when they received the vaccine, which is commonly given in childhood. Students can also avoid sharing items like eating utensils or cups that come into contact with saliva.
Students should stay home if they are sick with mumps to avoid spreading it to other people. A person with mumps can spread it for at least two days before and for five days after symptoms begin.
Taylor Health and Wellness is available to answer any questions you might have about the mumps. They can be reached at (417) 836-4000. Encourage your student to take advantage of the Taylor Health facilities and utilize the resources available.