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Mumps

Last updated July 2, 2024.

Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus. Most people with mumps will have puffy cheeks and a tender, swollen jaw. While often associated with childhood, mumps can affect people of any age. A routine vaccine prevents mumps.

Symptoms

Mumps typically causes swelling and tenderness of the salivary glands. This often looks like puffy cheeks. This swelling can make it hard to chew or swallow. It can cause pain when eating or drinking, and discomfort when talking or opening the mouth wide.

In addition to salivary gland swelling, mumps can also cause:

  • Fever 
  • Headache 
  • Muscle aches 
  • Fatigue 
  • Loss of appetite

In rare cases, mumps can cause more severe complications, especially in adults.

While there is no specific treatment for mumps, rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, medical attention may be necessary.

For more information on mumps symptoms, visit CDC’s mumps signs and symptoms webpage.

Contagiousness

Mumps spreads easily through respiratory droplets when a person with mumps coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted through sharing items with saliva on them, like cups or silverware, or through close contact. People infected with mumps are most contagious in the several days before and after they start to feel symptoms.

Routine vaccination and prevention

The measles, mumps, and rubella, or MMR vaccine, is highly effective at preventing mumps. The CDC recommends children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose given at 12-15 months of age and the second dose at 4-6 years of age. Teens and adults are also at risk for mumps and should be up to date on their MMR vaccination. Vaccination protects you from mumps and also helps prevent outbreaks within communities.

Learn where to get vaccinated in Colorado. For more information on the MMR vaccine, visit CDC’s MMR vaccination webpage.

If you think you or someone in your family has mumps, reach out to a doctor or health care provider. Additionally, if you have been in close contact with someone who has mumps, contact your health care provider or local health department for guidance.

Public health and health care professionals

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