Mumps is an acute, contagious disease that causes painful swelling of the salivary glands. The salivary glands produce saliva, a liquid that moistens food and helps you chew and swallow.

See also: Salivary gland infections

The mumps are caused by a virus, which is spread from person-to-person by respiratory droplets (for example, when you sneeze) or by direct contact with items that have been contaminated with infected saliva.

The parotid glands (the largest salivary glands, located between the ear and the jaw) are often swollen.

Mumps most commonly occurs in children between age 2 and 12 who have not been vaccinated against the disease. However, the infection can occur at any age. The time between being exposed to the virus and getting sick (incubation period) is usually 12 to 24 days.

Mumps may also infect the testes, the central nervous system, and the pancreas.

• Face pain
• Swelling of the parotid glands
• Fever
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Swelling of the temples or jaw (temporomandibular area)

• Testicle pain
• Testicle lump
• Scrotal swelling

A physical examination confirms the presence of the swollen glands. No testing is usually required.

There is no specific treatment for mumps. Ice or heat packs applied to the neck area and with acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help relieve pain. Do not give aspirin to children with a viral illness because of the risk of Reye's syndrome.

Warm salt water gargles, soft foods, and extra fluids may also help relieve symptoms.

Patients usually do well, even if other organs are involved. After the illness, the patient has a life-long immunity to the mumps.

Infection of other organs may occur, including orchitis.

Call your health care provider if you or your child has mumps and severe headache, persistent drowsiness, eye redness, or persistent vomiting or abdominal pain.

Call your health care provider if testicle pain or testicle lump occurs.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if convulsions occur.

MMR immunization (vaccine) protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. It should be given to children 12-15 months old. Vaccination is repeated between 4 to 6 years of age, or between 11 and 12 years of age, if not previously given.

Recent outbreaks of the mumps have reinforced the importance of having all children vaccinated.