One Case of Mumps Confirmed in Colorado
April 2006, Colorado — The state of Iowa has
been experiencing a large outbreak of mumps that began in December 2005.
The majority of cases are occurring among persons 18-25 years of age,
many of whom are vaccinated. Additional cases of mumps, possibly linked
to the Iowa outbreak, are also under investigation in eight neighboring
states. Thus far, Colorado has one
confirmed case
related to this outbreak, although several suspect cases are under
investigation.
Mumps is an acute viral illness
caused by a Rubulavirus. The virus causes swelling in one or more
salivary glands, usually the parotid glands. Symptoms of the illness
include fever, swelling, and tenderness of one or more of the salivary
glands, usually the parotid gland (located just below the front of the
ear). Approximately one-third of infected people do not exhibit
symptoms.
Mumps can also cause central nervous
system disorders, such as encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and
meningitis (swelling of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). Other
complications of the illness include arthritis, kidney problems,
inflammation of the thyroid gland and breasts, and deafness.
Mumps can be contagious seven days
prior to and nine days after the start of symptoms. A person is most
contagious 48 hours before the appearance of symptoms.
If you feel you may have been exposed to
mumps, it is important to contact your health care provider as soon as
possible.
For more information about mumps:
Top of Page |
Why are vaccinated individuals
getting sick?
Although the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is a very good
vaccine, it is not perfect.
Approximately one out of every ten people receiving the recommended two
doses of the vaccine will not develop immunity to mumps. This is because
everyone’s immune system is different, and the vaccine is not effective
for some people.
There is no way to know who will or will not develop immunity to mumps
through vaccination.
During an outbreak, therefore, it is very likely that some people who
were previously vaccinated will become ill. They are the "one out of
ten" persons whose vaccination did not take effect.
It is, however, very important to note that 90% of previously vaccinated
people will not become ill with mumps. |
