Getting immunized against mumps can save your life. Those who get two doses of mumps vaccine are about nine times less likely to get mumps than those who aren't vaccinated. It is still possible get mumps if you've been vaccinated. But if you are one of those who has come down with the mumps despite having been vaccinated, you're likely to have just a mild case.
What is Mumps?
Mumps is a communicable disease caused by a virus. Initial symptoms include fever, fatigue, headache and loss of appetite, followed by swelling and tenderness of the salivary glands. Mumps is spread via nose and mouth secretions when an infected person coughs or sneezes. People with mumps usually recover fully. But there are risks of complications from mumps. These include meningitis, loss of hearing., inflammation of the testicles in men and even death.
Follow the Recommended Immunization Schedule
For best protection against mumps, a child should get two doses of mumps vaccine. In countries with effective childhood vaccination programs, immunization against mumps is recommended between the ages of 12 to 18 months, with a second dose at least one month later. More than 90 percent of those who have been properly immunized against the mumps have long-lasting immunity, according to the "Control of Communicable Diseases Manual," edited by Dr. David Heymann
Why Vaccinated Children May Still Get Mumps
Despite being immunized, children can still contract the mumps. An English study found that one dose of mumps vaccine provides 64 percent immunity, while two doses provide almost 90 percent, close to what the "Control of Communicable Diseases Manual" indicates. Various other factors can contribute to the level of protection, such as quality of the vaccine, how it is administered and a child's overall health status.
How to Protect Your Child
Immunization is the best protection against mumps. Another way to protect your child from mumps and other infections is washing your hands frequently. Washing surfaces and toys often is also important. Because mumps is spread through saliva, make sure your child does not share utensils, bottles, pacifiers or cups. Also, prevent your child from being around other children while they are sick.
References
- "Canadian Immunization Guide";2006
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Outbreak-Related Questions and Answers for Patients
- Center for Disease control and Prevention: Transmission of Mumps
- "Control of Communiable Diseases Manual"; David L. Heymann, MD; 2008
- "Vaccine"; The effectiveness of the mumps component of the MMR vaccine: a case control study; R. Harling, et al., July 2005.
