Mumps, or medically known as epidemic parotitis , is a viral infection that causes swelling of the parotid glands, one of the salivary glands located near the ear. Although this disease is often considered mild, mumps can cause serious complications if not treated properly. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the main causes of mumps and how to prevent it. This article will discuss the various causes of mumps that are often overlooked by many people.
Getting to Know What Mumps Is
Mumps is caused by an infection caused by the paramyxovirus virus. This virus is usually spread through direct contact with saliva or droplets from an infected person. Mumps usually affects children, but adults can also be infected, especially if they have not had the disease before or have not received the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccination.
What Are the Symptoms of Mumps?
Symptoms of mumps usually appear within 16 to 18 days after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include:
- Swelling of one or both parotid glands, causing the face to appear puffy.
- Pain in the swollen area, especially when chewing or swallowing.
- Experiencing mild to high fever.
- Having a headache.
- Experiencing fatigue and feeling weak.
- Loss of appetite.
So, What Are the Often Missed Causes of Mumps?
1. Direct contact with an infected person
The mumps virus is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with the saliva of an infected person. Sharing eating utensils, drinking from the same glass, or close contact such as touching lips can increase the risk of infection. Therefore, it is best to avoid sharing eating utensils or drinks with others, especially if they are showing symptoms of a respiratory infection.
2. Exposure to airborne droplets
The mumps virus can be transmitted through droplets of saliva that come out when someone with mumps coughs or sneezes. These droplets can be inhaled by people around them. We need to understand the importance of keeping our distance from people who are sick and wearing a mask can help prevent the spread of the virus.
3. Not vaccinated or incomplete vaccination
The MMR vaccine is very effective in preventing mumps. People who have not been vaccinated or have not received the full dose of the vaccine are at higher risk of becoming infected. Be sure to get the MMR vaccine according to the schedule recommended by health authorities and medical professionals.
4. Decreased immunity
Did you know that a weak immune system can actually increase your risk of infection? This condition can be caused by chronic illness, use of immunosuppressant drugs, or severe stress. Therefore, it is important for us to continue to maintain our health with a balanced diet, regular exercise, enough rest, and stress management.
5. Dense environment
In fact, mumps virus is more easily spread in crowded environments, such as schools, dormitories, or crowded workplaces. It is recommended to reduce density and increase indoor air ventilation so that it can help prevent the spread of the virus.
Can Mumps Cause Complications?
Although mumps is generally considered a mild illness, serious complications can arise, especially in adults. Some of these complications include:
- Orchitis: Swelling of the testicles, which can cause infertility in men.
- Oophoritis: Swelling of the ovaries in women, which can cause pelvic pain.
- Meningitis: An infection that can affect the membranes of the brain and spinal cord.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation that occurs in the pancreas.
So, How to Treat Mumps?
There is no specific treatment for mumps, but the following steps may help relieve symptoms:
- Get enough rest to give your body time to fight the infection.
- Cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain in the parotid glands.
- Drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if you have a high fever.
- Taking painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce pain and fever.
Awareness about the causes of mumps and preventive measures are essential to reduce the spread of this infection. Vaccination, maintaining personal hygiene, and avoiding close contact with infected people are key to prevention. If you or your child exhibits symptoms of mumps, consult a doctor immediately to get proper treatment and avoid serious complications. With a better understanding of mumps, we can protect ourselves and those around us from this disease. Keep yourself updated with your health information and always follow the advice of a trusted medical professional.
Article written by dr. Fajar Adesta, Sp.PD (Internal Medicine Specialist, EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).