Mumps
General Health Information
In this Section:
Key
Facts and Health Information about Mumps
Additional Resources
Contact Us
What are the signs and symptoms of mumps?
Mumps is a highly contagious viral illness characterized by swelling
of the parotid glands, just below and in front of the ear, and at
times, the salivary glands under the jaw. It is transmitted through
close contact, and can take 12-25 days after exposure for symptoms
to appear. People with mumps are contagious for up to 7 days before
and up to 9 days after onset of symptoms.
How can I prevent getting mumps?
In addition to vaccination, other prevention measures for reducing
transmission include frequent hand washing, using alcohol-based hand
sanitizer (such as Purell), covering coughs and sneezes, and
avoiding the sharing of glasses and utensils.
What if I think I have the mumps (or been exposed to the mumps)?
Students should
stay at home and call Schiffert Health Center at (540) 231-6444.
What happens if I'm not vaccinated and exposed to mumps?
All VA Tech students are required by Virginia state law and the
university to receive the required immunizations, including the
mumps vaccine. The university is placing blocks on those Tech
students' registration who have not met the
Virginia state law and university requirements. Please note that
VA Tech will follow guidance from public health authorities which
may also
exclude
all susceptible individuals from the campus for several weeks after
mumps is identified. This restriction would include all university
buildings, classes, research, work and any other activities.
For More Information and Resources on Mumps:
Mumps Information (Iowa Department of Public Health)
Mumps Information from CDC (Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention)
Questions?
(for VA Tech only)
Call Schiffert Health Center Triage: (540)
231-1895