[ad_1]
CHENEY, Washington – Two mumps cases have been confirmed on the campus of Eastern Washington University and another is being investigated.
The Spokane Regional Health District has confirmed two cases of the contagious virus. These are the first cases of mumps in Spokane County in 2019.
According to Dave Meany, director of communications and media relations at EWU, the school alerted students and staff to the cases as a precaution.
In an email sent to people on campus, a student may have exposed other people to the disease between May 17 and May 24. School officials asked people to review their vaccination cards and monitor any possible symptoms until 18 June.
Mumps is spread by saliva or mucus through the mouth, nose or throat. An infected person can spread the virus by:
1. Coughing, sneezing or talking
2. Share objects, such as cups or utensils, with others
3. Touch objects or surfaces with unwashed hands that are then touched by others.
The infectious period of mumps is three to five days after the onset of the most common symptom, swelling and pain in the cheeks and jaw.
Fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and loss of appetite are other common symptoms.
To prevent getting mumps, people are encouraged to get vaccinated, wash their hands frequently and avoid sharing their glasses, utensils, water bottles, cigarettes and make-up.
In 2017, Spokane experienced an outbreak of mumps, with more than 250 cases.
This year, measles has been a big concern in Washington. A total of 81 people were diagnosed with measles in the state.
RELATED: The number of people with measles exceeds the 25-year mark
RELATED: Born before 1989? You may need another dose of measles vaccine.
RELATED: Confirmed cases of mumps in Grant County, 3 others suspected
RELATED: According to one study, the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine does not increase the risk of autism
[ad_2]
Source link