The Hawai‘i State Department of Health today confirmed three additional cases of O‘ahu residents with mumps, bringing the total number of cases in 2017 to 58.
The recently confirmed cases involve two children and one adult. All three of the new cases are linked to previously confirmed cases on O‘ahu. None of the individuals required hospitalization and no schools were affected.
The department expects to see more cases of mumps in Hawai‘i as the viral disease is highly contagious and circulating on O‘ahu.
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The disease is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The disease can also be spread by sharing items, such as cups or eating utensils, or by touching contaminated objects or surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.
The classic mumps symptom of parotitis often results in a tender, swollen jaw. Other symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness and loss of appetite. Some people with mumps have very mild or no symptoms.
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella, and prevents most cases of mumps. Two doses of the vaccine are 88% effective at protecting against mumps and one dose is 78% effective. Being fully vaccinated can help protect family members, friends, classmates and coworkers.
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MMR vaccine is available at local pharmacies across the state. To locate a vaccinating pharmacy in your community, go online or call the Aloha United Way information and referral line at 2-1-1.
Additional information about mumps and the ongoing investigation can be found on the DOH website.
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