The Hawai‘i State Department of Health today confirmed four additional cases of mumps in O‘ahu residents, bringing the total number of cases in 2017 to 55.
The recently confirmed cases are children. Two of the cases are linked to a previously confirmed adult case, and two of the cases are linked to previous cases in the community. None of the individuals required hospitalization.
The department expects to see more cases of mumps in Hawai‘i as the viral disease is highly contagious and circulating on O‘ahu.
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 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.
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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 loved ones, family members, friends, classmates and coworkers.
MMR vaccine is available at local pharmacies across the state. To locate a vaccinating pharmacy in your community, visit here 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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