Mumps outbreak: Concerning signs to be aware of...

 

Parents are becoming increasingly concerned as the number of children getting the mumps is rising in the states of Telangana, Hyderabad, and Maharashtra. Mumps is a self-limiting viral infection that can cause swelling and pain in the parotid glands, which are located on each side of the face. Concerning symptoms are being brought on by the current outbreak, and complications are being feared. Among the symptoms that the youngsters with the disease are enduring are fever, exhaustion, enlarged glands, aches in the muscles, and headaches. parents need to be aware of potential side effects like as deafness and meningitis. pregnant mothers who have this disease may experience fetal harm. Experts advise exercising caution and adhering to social distancing protocols as well as basic hygiene practices like hand washing with soap and water.

"The current mumps outbreak serves as a warning of a latent susceptibility that exists throughout our population, in addition to only causing swollen cheeks. Although there is little information available about the mumps burden in India, research on children under five, for example, shows a concerning picture of low seropositivity (53.3% at 9 months and 20.3% at 1 year), decreasing antibody levels, and even susceptibility among those who had received vaccinations (34.7% in one study). 

Early symptoms include fever, headache, soreness in the muscles, exhaustion, and appetite loss. Two to three days later, swollen glands under the jaw or ears may develop on one or both sides (bilaterally). The unpleasant swelling area may or may not be accompanied by ear ache. Acidic or sour foods or drinks may make the pain worse. After 7 days, the swelling progressively goes down, and the other symptoms go away in 3–5 days. You should see a doctor as soon as you notice any swelling, advises Dr. Bhagyawant.




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