A mumps outbreak in neighbouring Manitoba and Alberta have put Saskatchewan public health officials, including the Sun Country Health Region, on alert for any appearance of the virus. Mumps is an infection caused by a virus. The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health and the Public Health Ministry of Canada issued public releases about the mumps virus on March 1 in response to the outbreak.
There are three ways to be protected from mumps, firstly by reviewing immunization records. Those residents born before 1970 have natural immunity and those residents born after 1970 should have received two shots of the MMR (measles-mumps-Rubella) vaccine. Secondly, frequent hand washing or using alcohol gel to clean hands is recommended. Finally, anyone who is ill should stay at home to avoid infecting others.
Mumps spreads readily through saliva and respiratory droplets in the air when coughing or sneezing. There is an increased risk of spreading the virus through kissing, sharing utensils, water bottles, drinks, lipsticks and cigarettes. People should avoid touching their eyes or mouth after touching items that were previously touched by an infected person. Mumps is easily spread in a crowded environment where people are in close contact.
Those who are infected with mumps can spread the virus to others from seven days before they have developed any symptoms to five days after they have developed swollen salivary glands.
The symptoms of mumps are typically swelling of the cheeks, jawline and neck due to swollen salivary glands. There could also be mild symptoms of fever, headache, muscle ache and tiredness and loss of appetite – these are also all symptoms of other illnesses. Gland swelling can be caused by other viruses like the influenza virus and bacteria. Some people can be infected with a mild form of the virus and not be aware that they have it. Up to 30 per cent of people infected have no symptoms and can still spread the virus, according to the Saskatchewan Health Ministry. Most people who get mumps recover completely in a few weeks but complications can occur.
Saskatchewan public health wants to warn the public now to prevent the outbreaks seen elsewhere in Canada. Manitoba has had 184 cases of mumps since September 1, with eight cases between February 22 and March 3. Alberta has also been hard hit. Alberta Health Ministry has confirmed 18 cases of mumps to date.
