19.11.2004
Universities across the country have been experiencing cases of students with mumps. This is because of a higher risk of catching mumps among young people - born between 1980 and 1987 (i.e. those aged between 18 to 25) - due to a lull in the vaccination of babies or only one dose of MMR having been given.
The University of Brighton has been working to address this with the Health Protection Agency and, before term, has been advising students to check their status prior to starting on their courses and to get vaccinated if required.
So far this academic year, just two cases of mumps have been diagnosed in students in the university’s Eastbourne site and both students are undergoing treatment.
A spokesperson for the university said:
“We have the utmost concern for our students’ health. Whilst mumps is generally not that serious, complications can occur, which is why it has been vaccinated against. That’s why we are doing everything we can to ensure students are aware of both the vaccination opportunities and the symptoms.
“We are using all available communications channels – from our tutors to posters on noticeboards across the campus to advise students of what to do. The Health Protection Agency recommends that those who have not received MMR or only one dose, should be offered MMR. Those who suspect they have symptoms should contact their doctor immediately.
“Students are also being advised that they can contact any of our medical centres where they can provide a vaccination for any student – whether they are registered with us or any other GP.”
NHS Direct web site indicates:
‘Mumps is a viral infection of the parotid salivary glands. These glands
are located just below and in front of the ears. They produce saliva, which drains
into the mouth and helps to break up and digest food.
Mumps is caused by a contagious virus, which is transmitted through airborne droplets from the coughs and sneezes of infected people. It takes around 16-21 days between coming into contact with an infected person, and symptoms developing. Mumps is normally a mild illness, although in a minority of cases there can be severe complications, such as deafness and meningitis. This is why children are vaccinated against mumps.
Since 1988, when the childhood measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) immunisation was introduced, mumps has become less common in the UK. However, in recent years there has been an increase in cases of mumps because some parents have chosen not to let their child have the MMR vaccine.
There is no cure for mumps, so any treatment deals with symptoms. The body heals itself by producing antibodies to the virus. This provides immunity for the rest of the person’s life; repeat infection is very rare.
People with mumps should drink plenty of cool fluids, especially
water.
Avoid fruit juice because it stimulates saliva production, which can be painful.
A mild painkiller will help to reduce pain and mild fever.
It may be soothing to hold a warm flannel against the swollen glands.
Adolescent boys and men who have severe inflammation of the testes (orchitis)
may be prescribed a stronger painkiller, or steroid drugs called corticosteroids.
More at: www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
Contact: Marketing and Communications, University of Brighton, 01273 643022
