Whatcom County mumps case confirmed in adult

WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) has confirmed a case of mumps in a Whatcom County resident. This is the first confirmed case of mumps reported in the county since 2018.

The person who got sick is an adult who is recovering at home and was not hospitalized. They may have been exposed to mumps while on a cruise ship outside the US.

There is no risk to the general public according to WCHCS. Health officials have identified and contacted people who may have been exposed. These individuals are aware of what symptoms to look out for and will be monitored throughout the recommended observation period.

While there is no risk to the public with this case, the situation serves as a vital reminder of the importance of vaccination, especially in light of recent measles cases in Washington State and across the nation.

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“This case highlights the continued importance of staying up to date on routine vaccinations like MMR,” said Dr. Meghan Lelonek, Whatcom County Co-Health Officer. “Vaccines help prevent serious illness and limit the spread in our community.”

Mumps is a contagious viral infection that affects the salivary glands. It spreads through respiratory droplets or direct contact with saliva from an infected person, often by coughing, sneezing, sharing drinks, or being in close contact for a long time. Symptoms usually appear 16 to 18 days after exposure and may include:

Puffy cheeks and tender, swollen jaw
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Tiredness
Loss of appetite

Most individuals with mumps recover within two weeks, but severe complications can occur, such as hearing loss and inflammation of the testicles, ovaries, breast tissue, pancreas, brain, and the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord. There is no treatment for mumps—only management of symptoms—making vaccination the best form of protection. Learn more about mumps at the Washington Department of Health website.

The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is a safe and highly effective two-dose series that provides long-term protection. Children should get their first dose between 12 and 15 months and the second dose between 4 and 6 years, or at least four weeks after the first dose. If you don’t have a record of two MMR vaccinations, are unsure if you’ve been vaccinated, or are unsure if you’ve had mumps in the past, reach out to your healthcare provider.