Mumps

What is mumps?

Mumps is an infectious disease that spreads from person to person through saliva, nasal fluids, and close contact. It mainly affects the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands, which are responsible for producing saliva. These glands are located behind and below your ears.

In many African communities, mumps is commonly referred to as “swollen cheeks” or “big face disease” because of the visible swelling it causes. While some people think it is caused by eating certain foods, mumps is actually caused by a virus and spreads easily among children and adults who have not been vaccinated.

How common is mumps in Africa?

Mumps cases are still reported in many African countries, especially in areas where vaccination rates are low. According to the world health organization (WHO), outbreaks have been recorded in several African nations, affecting schoolchildren and young adults the most. Due to limited access to healthcare in some rural areas, people often rely on traditional remedies, which may not always be effective in preventing complications.

What are the symptoms of mumps?

Symptoms of mumps usually appear within two weeks of being exposed to the virus. The first signs are often flu-like, including:

  • Fatigue (feeling very tired)
  • Body aches
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite (not feeling like eating)
  • Low fever

After these initial symptoms, the most noticeable sign appears: swelling of the salivary glands, which causes puffiness around the cheeks and jaw. The swelling can:

  • Be on one or both sides of the face
  • Gradually increase and become painful
  • Make it difficult to chew, talk, or swallow What happens if mumps is left untreated?

If not treated properly, mumps can lead to serious health problems, especially in adults.

Some of the complications include:

Orchitis (swelling of the testicles in men)

  • This condition can cause severe pain and, in rare cases, lead to infertility (the inability to have children).
  • Affected men can place cold packs on the testicles to reduce swelling and pain.

Oophoritis (swelling of the ovaries in women)

  • Some women may experience lower belly pain and discomfort.
  • Pregnant women with mumps have a higher risk of miscarriage, especially in the first three months.

Meningitis (brain and spinal cord infection)

  • Though rare, mumps can cause meningitis, which leads to severe headaches, stiff neck, and confusion.
  • This is a life-threatening condition that needs immediate medical attention.

Encephalitis (swelling of the brain)

  • This can cause seizures, loss of balance, and even death in severe cases.

Can mumps be prevented?

Yes! The best way to prevent mumps is through vaccination. The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is given to children in two doses:

  • First dose: Between 12 and 15 months old
  • Second dose: Between 4 and 6 years old

Unfortunately, in some parts of Africa, vaccine hesitancy, myths, and lack of access to healthcare make it harder to achieve full immunization coverage. It is important for parents to ensure their children get vaccinated to avoid outbreaks.

How is mumps treated?

There is no specific medicine to cure mumps because it is a viral infection. However, the symptoms can be managed with simple home remedies:

  • Rest: Avoid strenuous activities when feeling weak or tired.
  • Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medicines like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and pain.
  • Ice packs: Applying cold compresses to swollen cheeks can relieve discomfort.
  • Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated prevents dehydration caused by fever.
  • Soft foods: Eating foods that do not require much chewing (such as porridge or mashed potatoes) can make eating easier.

Key takeaways?

  • Mumps is a viral infection that spreads through saliva and close contact.
  • It is common in Africa, especially in areas with low vaccination rates.
  • Symptoms include swollen cheeks, fever, and body aches.
  • If untreated, it can cause serious complications like infertility, meningitis, or brain swelling.
  • Vaccination is the best way to prevent mumps.

Simple home remedies can help manage symptoms.