Introduction

Mumps, caused by a paramyxovirus, is spread via direct contact or by airborne droplets from the upper respiratory tract of infected individuals. Humans are the only known natural host for mumps virus. The incubation period of mumps is usually 16 to 18 days but can range from 12 to 25 days. Mumps is a leading cause of acquired sensorineural deafness among children. After about 1 week, fever and glandular swelling disappear, and unless complications occur, the illness resolves completely.

Before the 1960s, when mumps vaccines became commercially available, mumps was a common infectious disease in all parts of the world, with annual incidences ranging from 100–1000 cases/100 000 population. In hot climates the disease may occur at any time of year, whereas in temperate climates the incidence peaks in winter and spring. Many countries experience epidemics at intervals of 2–5 years. Although mumps is most frequently reported in children aged 5–9 years, both adolescents and adults may be affected.

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