Mumps Immunization

Manual for the Surveillance of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (4th Edition, 2008)

http://www.who.int/immunization/wer8207mumps_Feb07_position_paper.pdf The mumps vaccine is incorporated either in the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) or the MMRV (measles-mumps-rubella-varicella). It is based on a live attenuated strain of the virus and is known to be very effective. In fact the two- dosage system provides 80% effective immunity
For children, there are two doses, the first given at 12-15 months of age and the second dose is recommended at 4- 6 years. The vaccine was introduced year 1957, thereby adults born before this date with no natural immunity or those without vaccination evidence should take at least one dose.

During possible epidemics, the second dose (booster) can be taken after at least one month from date of the initial vaccination.

No specific therapy exists for mumps. Warm or cold packs for the parotid gland tenderness and swelling is helpful. Pain relievers (acetaminophen [Tylenol] and ibuprofen [Advil]) are also helpful.

What is the treatment for mumps in adults and in children?

The mainstay of therapy (regardless of age range) is to provide comfort for this self-limited disease. Taking analgesics (acetaminophen, ibuprofen) and applying warm or cold packs to the swollen and inflamed salivary gland region may be helpful.