How to Prevent Mumps, Recognize the Causes and Symptoms

Kapanlagi.com - Preventing mumps is very important, as this disease is contagious and caused by the paramyxovirus. This virus attacks the salivary glands located around the jaw and neck. Mumps more commonly affects children, but adults are also at risk of infection. It spreads through saliva droplets from coughing or sneezing, as well as contact with contaminated objects.

Due to its easy transmission, appropriate preventive measures are necessary to break the chain of transmission, especially in home or school environments. One of the most effective ways is to get the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccination. In addition, maintaining hand hygiene and isolating infected individuals are also highly recommended.

Here is an explanation of the causes of mumps, symptoms to watch out for, preventive measures, and recommended treatments.

1. Causes of Mumps and How It Spreads

Mumps is caused by the paramyxovirus that attacks the salivary glands, especially under the ears and jaw. This virus is highly contagious and can spread through:

• Saliva droplets when coughing or sneezing.
• Direct contact with contaminated objects, such as doorknobs, toys, or eating utensils.

Children are the most vulnerable group because their immune systems are not fully developed. Additionally, the virus's incubation period of up to 2–3 weeks makes early detection of transmission difficult. Therefore, discipline in implementing preventive measures at home and school is very important.

2. Symptoms of Mumps to Watch Out For

Mumps often begins with mild symptoms that are sometimes unnoticed. The swelling of the salivary glands around the jaw is the main symptom, often accompanied by:

• Fever.
• Headache.
• Muscle pain.
• Fatigue.
• Difficulty chewing or speaking.

In some cases, mumps can also lead to loss of appetite. Although some children may only experience mild symptoms or be asymptomatic, a doctor's visit is highly recommended if these signs appear. Early detection can help prevent more serious complications.

3. How to Prevent Mumps

The most effective way to prevent mumps is through MMR vaccination, which is given in two doses:

• First dose: age 12–15 months.
• Second dose: age 4–6 years.

This vaccine can provide protection of up to 88–95% after the second dose. In addition to vaccination, other preventive measures include:

1. Maintaining hand hygiene by washing with soap.
2. Cleaning surfaces with disinfectant.
3. Avoiding sharing eating or drinking utensils.
4. Isolating the infected to prevent spread.

Teaching children to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing is also important in breaking the chain of transmission.

4. Diagnosis and Treatment of Mumps

Mumps diagnosis is performed through physical examination and laboratory tests, such as saliva or urine tests. Since this disease is caused by a virus, the use of antibiotics is ineffective. The treatment provided aims to relieve symptoms, such as:

• Using pain relievers.
• Applying cold compresses to reduce swelling.
• Consuming adequate fluids.
• Complete rest.

Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to reduce fever. With proper management, recovery usually occurs within 7–10 days.

5. Serious Complications to Watch Out For

If not handled properly, mumps can cause serious complications, such as:

• Orchitis (inflammation of the testicles) in men.
• Oophoritis (inflammation of the ovaries) in women.
• Meningitis or encephalitis, if the virus spreads to the nervous system.

These complications can affect fertility or cause permanent damage to the brain. Therefore, early detection and vaccination are very important to prevent these risks.

6. Can mumps recover without treatment?

Yes, mumps usually resolves on its own within 7–10 days, but treatment is still necessary to relieve symptoms.

7. Is the MMR vaccine really effective?

It is very effective, with a protection rate of up to 88–95% after the second dose.

8. How to prevent the transmission of mumps at home?

Isolating the patient, maintaining hand hygiene, and disinfecting frequently touched objects are the main steps to prevent transmission.

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