Mumps
Cause
Mumps virus of the genus Rubulavirus of the family Paramyxoviridae.
Transmission
Humans are the only known natural host for mumps virus, which is spread via direct contact or by airborne droplets from the upper respiratory tract of infected individuals.
Nature of the disease
Mumps (parotitis epidemica) is a viral infection of humans, primarily affecting the salivary glands. Although it is mostly a mild childhood disease, with peak incidence occurring among those aged 5–9 years, the mumps virus may also affect adults, among whom complications such as meningitis and orchitis are relatively more common. Encephalitis and permanent neurological sequelae are rare complications.
Disease burden
In most areas, annual mumps incidence is in the range of 100–1000 per 100 000 population, with epidemic peaks every 2–5 years. Natural infection with mumps virus is thought to confer lifelong protection.
Risk for travellers
Travellers who are not fully immunized against mumps are at risk.