Mumps (12 months)

Mumps is a viral infection of the salivary gland caused by the Rubulavirus.  It is usually a mild disease in children, and is characterised by swollen salivary glands in the neck, cheek and jaw area.

One of the most serious complications of mumps can be deafness due to nerve damage, however this is rare.  Adolescent and adult males may experience painful, swollen testicles, however this very rarely causes infertility.  Mumps infection during the first trimester of pregnancy may cause miscarriage.  Other less frequent complications of mumps include serious infection of the ovaries, pancreas, liver, brain and heart.

The mumps virus is spread when someone ingests saliva from an infected person (for example by breathing in cough or sneeze droplets).  The virus can also be spread by coming into contact with the urine of an infected person.

Patients may be contagious from 6 days before the salivary glands become swollen and up to 9 days after.  One in three people infected with the mumps virus may not have any obvious symptoms, but are still contagious and can spread the disease.

Please speak to your doctor if you are concerned about your baby's risk of mumps.

Mumps is uncommon in Australia, but cases still occur.  Anyone who has not been vaccinated, particularly if they are travelling to countries where vaccination against mumps is not common is potentially at risk of infection.

Please speak to your doctor regarding your or your baby's individual circumstances.

Symptoms generally occur about 2-3 weeks after infection and can include swelling under the jaw area, fever, headache, muscle aches and pains, loss of appetite and a general unwell feeling.  Patients usually recover within 10 days.  One in three people infected with the mumps virus may not have any obvious symptoms.

One of the most serious complications of mumps can be deafness due to nerve damage, however this is rare.  Adolescent and adult males may experience painful, swollen testicles, however this very rarely causes infertility.  Mumps infection during the first trimester of pregnancy may cause miscarriage.  Other less frequent complications of mumps include serious infection of the ovaries, pancreas, liver, brain and heart.

Mumps vaccination is recommended as part of routine childhood immunisation. In Australia, vaccination against mumps is available in a combination vaccine that also protects against measles and rubella. Mumps vaccination is provided free to children as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP) and consists of 2 doses, usually given at 12 months of age and 4 years of age.

It is important for children to complete the recommended course of vaccinations to help protect them against the disease.

Other individuals may also be at risk of mumps. Please discuss your individual circumstances with your doctor.

A range of side effects may be experienced following vaccination.  Discuss any concerns you have with your healthcare professional and inform them if you, or a member of your family experience any side effects as you may need treatment.