The New Jersey Department of Health is currently investigating a suspected cluster of mumps cases in Hunterdon County, involving eight family members who recently traveled internationally. According to a press release, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a total of 50 mumps cases in over 20 states this year.

Health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccination as the most effective protection against mumps. Dr. Kaitlan Baston, the acting health commissioner, stresses that getting the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) shot is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals and their loved ones.

Mumps is an infectious disease caused by a virus that spreads through direct contact with saliva, such as kissing or sharing water bottles with an infected person. It can also be transmitted through respiratory droplets from talking, coughing, or sneezing. Outbreaks often occur in settings with close contact, such as college campuses or large gatherings.

Dr. Mike Smith, chief of pediatric infectious diseases at Duke University School of Medicine, explains that mumps typically causes swelling of the glands that produce saliva, especially the parotid glands located in front of the ears. Infected individuals can spread the virus several days before the onset of swelling and up to five days after.

Symptoms of mumps usually appear 12 to 25 days after infection and include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite. While most people recover within two weeks, complications may occur, particularly in unvaccinated males, such as inflammation and swelling of the testicles (orchitis).

The introduction of the MMR vaccine in the United States led to an overwhelming 99% reduction in reported mumps cases. However, outbreaks and cases have been increasing since 2006, with a higher prevalence among young adults and previously vaccinated individuals.

The MMR vaccine offers protection against measles, mumps, and rubella, and it is recommended that children receive two doses: the first dose at 12 to 15 months old and the second dose between 4 and 6 years of age. Adults who are not immune are also advised to receive at least one dose of the vaccine.

Dr. Aaron Glatt, chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, highlights that mumps immunization rates are still below optimal levels, with only about 90% of children fully vaccinated by the age of 24 months. Even those who receive the recommended two doses may still be at risk of infection if their immunity wanes over time.

Taking into account the ongoing outbreak situation, health experts recommend a third dose of the MMR vaccine for individuals in outbreak settings. Mumps and measles are caused by different viruses but belong to the same family of respiratory droplet-transmitted infections known as Paramyxoviridae.

While measles is considered more contagious and can have severe complications such as brain swelling and pneumonia, mumps remains a significant concern worldwide. Recent outbreaks of measles and mumps in the U.S. have primarily affected unvaccinated individuals.

In conclusion, the New Jersey Department of Health is actively investigating a cluster of mumps cases in Hunterdon County. Vaccination is crucial for protection against mumps, and health officials urge individuals to adhere to the recommended immunization schedules to reduce the risk of infection and further spread of the disease.

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