Can mumps affect adults?

According to Dr Rajeev Gupta, Director – Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, adults can contract mumps too, especially if they haven’t been vaccinated or haven’t received the full course of vaccinations during childhood. In fact, adults who haven’t been vaccinated are more susceptible to complications from mumps compared to children, he added.

How is mumps different in adults?

According to Dr Shilpa Kulkarni, Consultant – ICU at Ruby Hall Clinic, Wanowrie, in adults, mumps can present with similar symptoms to those seen in children, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, and loss of appetite, in addition to acute parotitis (acute, painful swelling of the parotid glands, which are located beneath the ear pinna). However, she added that adults may also experience more severe complications, including swelling of the testicles (orchitis) in males, which can lead to infertility, as well as inflammation of the ovaries (oophoritis) in females.

“Adults are also more likely to experience complications such as meningitis or encephalitis, which can be serious and even life-threatening. Therefore, it’s crucial for adults to ensure they’re up-to-date with their vaccinations to protect themselves from mumps and its potential complications,” Dr Gupta told indianexpress.com in an interaction.

Though less common, mumps can also cause polyarthritis, pancreatitis, or aseptic meningitis, he added. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

How does mumps spread?

Mumps spreads through contact with saliva and respiratory secretions. This means you can catch it by sharing utensils, cups, or other personal items with someone infected, or by being close to someone who’s coughing or sneezing. Close contact in crowded environments, such as schools, universities, or workplaces, can also elevate the risk of transmission, Dr Gupta said.

Furthermore, compromised immune systems, stress, or fatigue may lower your body’s defense mechanisms, potentially increasing susceptibility. To reduce your risk, ensure you are vaccinated, practice good hygiene, avoid close contact with infected individuals, and stay away from crowded environments during outbreaks.

What is the treatment and cure?

Mumps treatment primarily aims to manage symptoms, as no antiviral medications specifically target the mumps virus. The typical approach to treatment involves alleviating pain, reducing fever, and promoting overall comfort while the body combats the infection.

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are often used to reduce fever and ease the discomfort caused by swollen salivary glands.

Staying hydrated is crucial, so drinking plenty of fluids is recommended, especially if there’s a loss of appetite or fever.

Getting sufficient rest helps the body recover more quickly, and applying warm or cold compresses to the swollen areas can provide additional relief.

While mumps typically resolve within 10 to 14 days, it’s important to isolate the infected person to prevent the spread of the virus to others. After recovering from mumps, the body generally gains permanent immunity, reducing the likelihood of future infections. If you suspect mumps, it’s essential to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and to receive guidance on symptom management and isolation protocols.