Mumps is a viral infection spread by respiratory droplets. The incubation period is 14-25 days. Parotid swelling usually lasts 5–7 days, but other symptoms can persist for 10 days or more. Management is supportive and involves treating the complications if they occur.
Taking a vaccination history is essential when considering a mumps diagnosis. The MMR vaccine offers around 80% protection against mumps.
Presentation
Patients experience an initial period of flu-like symptoms known as the prodrome. These symptoms occur a few days before the parotid swelling and involve:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Lethargy
- Reduced appetite
- Headache
- Dry mouth
Parotid gland swelling, either unilateral or bilateral, with associated pain, is the key presenting feature.
It can also present with symptoms of the complications, such as:
- Abdominal pain (pancreatitis)
- Testicular pain and swelling (orchitis)
- Confusion, neck stiffness and headache (meningitis or encephalitis)
Management
A buccal/oral fluid swab for PCR testing is the key test for confirming the diagnosis. Blood or saliva can also be tested for antibodies to the mumps virus, though interpretation can be difficult in vaccinated patients.
Management is supportive, with rest, fluids and analgesia. Mumps is a self-limiting condition.
Mumps is a notifiable disease, and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) must be notified of all suspected and confirmed cases. Patients need to stay off nursery, school or work for 5 days after the onset of parotid swelling.
Complications
- Pancreatitis
- Orchitis (inflammation of the testes) or oophoritis (inflammation of the ovaries)
- Meningitis or encephalitis
- Sensorineural hearing loss
Last updated May 2026
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