Mumps

Symptoms

What are the symptoms of mumps?

The most common symptom of mumps is swelling of the glands that produce saliva (spit). This swelling can make the cheek or neck bulge out on one or both sides. Other symptoms of mumps include:

• fever,
• headache or earache,
• tiredness,
• sore muscles,
• dry mouth,
• trouble talking, chewing or swallowing, or
• loss of appetite.

Symptoms can be mild or severe, and generally last 7 to 10 days.

Many people who get infected with the mumps virus will have very mild symptoms or not be sick at all. However, they can still spread the disease to others. So it is important for everyone to be vaccinated against mumps.

What to do if you become ill

If you or your child develops the symptom of mumps, particularly swelling of the cheeks or neck, see your health care provider immediately. Make sure that you call ahead to ensure that you do not expose others to the disease.