Overview
Mumps is a viral infection that classically swells the salivary glands below the ears, giving a child painfully puffy cheeks and jaw, with fever and headache. Most children recover within two weeks. Complications such as testicular inflammation in adolescent boys make medical review worthwhile.
Symptoms
- Painful swelling on one or both sides of the face below the ears
- Fever
- Headache
- Pain when chewing or swallowing
- Tiredness and poor appetite
- Testicular pain and swelling in adolescent or adult males
Causes & risk factors
- Mumps virus spread by saliva and respiratory droplets
- Close contact in schools and households
- No previous infection or vaccination
Treatment & self-care
Rest, fluids, soft foods and paracetamol-type relief manage symptoms while the infection clears on its own; cold or warm compresses ease the swelling. Keep the child away from school until at least five days after the swelling started. Severe headache, abdominal pain or testicular swelling needs prompt review.
See a doctor urgently if
- Severe headache with stiff neck, vomiting or drowsiness
- Testicular pain or swelling
- Severe abdominal pain
- Hearing problems during or after the illness