Download PDF Fact Sheet

What is mumps?

Mumps is a contagious viral infection that affects the salivary glands. Mumps is no longer very common in the United States, but cases do still occur since mumps remains a common disease in many other parts of the world.

Who can get mumps?

Anyone born after 1957 (and has therefore not been exposed to the virus) and who has not received a Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine is at risk of being infected with mumps.

What are the symptoms of mumps?

Symptoms usually begin 16-18 days after infection, though some people with mumps may have mild or no symptoms.

• Painfully swollen glands on the face and neck (parotitis)
• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Tiredness
• Loss of appetite 

Are there complications with mumps?

Most people with mumps recover completely within 2 weeks. Rarely, mumps can cause complications (more commonly in adults). These may include:

• Inflammation of the testicles (which may lead to a decrease in testicular size, or temporary sterility or decrease fertility)
• Inflammation of the ovaries and/or breast tissue
• Inflammation in the pancreas
• Inflammation of the brain (which can lead to death or permanent disability)
• Swelling or inflammation of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord
• Temporary or permanent hearing loss
• Miscarriage (increased risk of pregnancy loss during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy)

How is mumps spread?

Mumps is easily spread by saliva or mucus from the nose, throat and mouth. A person with mumps can spread the virus by:

• Talking, coughing and sneezing
• Sharing cups and utensils
• Touching objects or surfaces with unwashed hands that are then touched by others

How long is a person contagious with mumps?

Persons with mumps are most infectious 2 days before swelling appears and up to 5 days after swelling begins. During this time, they should stay home from work or school and stay in a separate room if possible.

How can mumps be prevented?

Mumps can be prevented with the MMR (Measles-Mumps-Rubella) vaccine.

• The MMR vaccine is a 2-dose series.

  • All healthy children should receive the first MMR vaccine at 12-15 months of age

  • A second MMR vaccine is usually given at 4-6 years of age; however, it can be given as early as 28 days after the first dose.

• Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine. Women should avoid getting pregnant for at least 1 month after getting MMR vaccine.