What is Mumps? And how long does mumps last?

Mumps is an acute contagious viral infection usually seen in children.

Unilateral or bilateral parotid swellings characterize it. In mumps, it may also involve nerves, meninges, pancreas, and gonads. The incubation period is 2-3 weeks.

Pathogenesis

• It is transmitted through droplet infection.
• The virus then replicates in the respiratory epithelium and spread to the local nodes, and develops viraemia.
• The affected area then shows mononuclear cells infiltrates with oedema.
• Necrosis of acinar and epithelial duct cells is seen in the salivary gland and the seminiferous tubules.

Clinical features

• Disease preceded by headaches, chills, moderate fever, vomiting and pain below the ear.
• After this firm, rubbery or elastic swelling of the salivary glands elevating the ear, which last for one week.
• Produces pain on chewing.
• The swelling reaches its maximum in 3 days and then gradually subsides.
• The papilla of the opening of the parotid duct is often puffy and reddened.

Treatment

• Conservative.
• Maintaining hydration.
• Prevention is means by vaccination.