A mumps outbreak has been recorded in the southern state of Kerala; 190 cases have been recorded in a single day. There have been 2,505 cases of the viral infection this month, and over two months later, the number has reached 11,467 cases, as per the reports from the health department of Kerala.
According to The Indian Express, the reports stated that the Union Health Ministry has acknowledged the outbreak and informed the National Centre for Disease Control in the state.
Most of the cases are reported from the Malappuram district and other parts of north Kerala. The vaccines against mumps, measles and rubella are available but are not part of the government’s universal immunisation programme.
What are Mumps?
Mumps is an infection that is caused by an airborne virus called paramyxovirus, which primarily affects the salivary glands, causing swelling and pain.
Mumps Symptoms
Symptoms of the virus are likely to appear within two to four weeks; they start with mild fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue. The indication through which it can be identified is the enlargement of the salivary glands. It is generally observed in young children, adolescents and adults as well.
As per public health experts, children can get the vaccines against all three diseases (mumps-measles-rubella) at private centres.
Mumps Treatment
As of now, there is no specific treatment for mumps; most of the cases tend to clear up naturally after a few weeks. As per reports, to reduce the pain and other symptoms, it is advised to drink lots of fluids, gargle with warm salt water, and eat soft, non-acidic foods that are easily digestible.
Teens may require booster shots, and children can get MMR vaccines, whereas pregnant women are advised to consult a doctor immediately.
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