Mumps is a viral infection and spreads by air borne transmission. Recently in US there are an increased number of mumps cases.
Mumps is a viral infection and spreads by air borne transmission. Recently in US there are an increased number of mumps cases. Statistics show that more than 1500 mumps cases were reported in Iowa (975 cases), Nebraska (139), Kansas (205), Illinois (110), Wisconsin (more than 18), Missouri (19), Indiana (unknown) and Okalahoma (unknown). About sixty-seven out of 99 counties have witnessed at least one case of mumps. The three counties hit hardest by mumps are Dubuque (357), Johnson (140, and Black Hawk (102).
The state did all it can to prevent the increasing number by following 499 mumps cases. It has collected a wide variety of data such confirmed vaccination status on 429 cases, onset date for 975 cases and age at onset for 959 cases. A single dose of vaccine is enough to prevent 80 % of the disease while a booster dose offers about 95% protection against the disease. The state of Iowa issued a public health bulletin informing the risk of participants and spectators in various mass gatherings and events for contracting mumps. According to the state of Iowa those younger than 50 who have received two doses of mumps vaccine and those older than 49 who have received one dose of vaccine are viewed as fully vaccinated.In addition it has also recommended other precautions such as practising good respiratory hygiene, frequent washing of the hands, and to stay indoors when sick. In Nebraska 37 cases have been confirmed, 119 probable and 20 suspected. The most affected counties include Adams (27), Hamilton (16), Lancaster (14), Clay (12), Douglas (12), and Hall (12). In Illinois about 110 mumps cases have been documented. The most affected counties and cities include Jo Daviess (20), Winnebago (14), Rock Island (9), and Chicago (9). In Kansas 205 mumps cases have confirmed/probable. Though Wisconsin hasn't released any mumps information Milwaukee city has reported 18 confirmed, probable and suspected mumps cases. In Oklahoma and Indiana there is no mumps cases reported so far.
But in case of Missouri 19 cases have been reported which are in various stages. Health authorities are requesting suspected people not to go back to child care, school, work, or other public places until 5 days after symptoms began or until they are well. The general public should be educated on the signs and symptoms of mumps disease and should seek medical attention as soon as any of these symptoms begin.
