Canada: Mumps outbreaks in Toronto and Edmonton /update 1

Event

At least 62 cases of mumps have been confirmed in the city of Toronto (Ontario province) since early February. A second outbreak is ongoing in Edmonton (Alberta province), where 24 cases were reported in the first three months of 2017, along with another 27 cases elsewhere in Alberta province. This is more than six times the number of cases reported in Alberta in all of 2016, worrying local health officials.

Context

Mumps outbreaks are rare in Canada due to the availability of an effective vaccine. Mumps is an extremely contagious viral disease that is most common during the winter months. The disease is spread via airborne droplets emitted from the upper respiratory tract. The incubation period is generally between 16 and 18 days. Symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite, followed by a swelling of the parotid glands that can lead to difficulties in chewing and swallowing. Adult males without immunity are particularly susceptible to a more severe forms of mumps.

Advice

Individuals in or planning to travel to the Toronto and Edmonton areas are advised to verify their mumps vaccination is up to date and to take hygienic precautions.