18 Jan 2020 | 04:37 AM UTC
Ireland: Multiple outbreaks of mumps recorded nationwide as of January 17
Health officials warn of widespread outbreaks of mumps across Ireland as of January 17; verify vaccinations are up to date
Event
Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) warned on Friday, January 17, that multiple outbreaks of mumps have been recorded across the country. According to the HSE, 194 cases of mumps were reported during the first two weeks of January 2020. Health officials called on college and university students to ensure their vaccinations are up to date as a precaution to prevent further spread of the disease. The HSE also reported a significant increase in mumps cases in 2019 (around 2500) compared to 2018 (573).
Further spread of the disease is possible over the near term.
Context
Mumps is an extremely contagious viral disease which is spread via airborne droplets emitted from the upper respiratory tract. Symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite, followed by the swelling of the salivary (parotid) glands that can lead to difficulties in chewing and swallowing; the disease is asymptomatic in 20 percent of cases. Adult males without immunity are particularly susceptible to a more severe forms of mumps.
Advice
Individuals in or traveling to Ireland are advised to verify that their mumps vaccination and any necessary booster shots are up to date and to take hygienic precautions.
