Mumps cases now up to 5 in Grant County

MOSES LAKE — After previously announcing three cases of mumps in Grant County, the Grant County Health District has bumped the number of confirmed cases up to five.

The health district announced last week three confirmed mumps cases among students at the Columbia Basin Job Corps Center, with another two probable cases. Health district officials stated the students were isolated to prevent a serious outbreak and to control the situation.

The Washington Department of Health reported as of 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 1 there were 349 confirmed cases of mumps across the state, the majority of which were in King County, which had 173, and Spokane County, which had 123.

“To reduce the risk of becoming ill, everyone should be sure they are fully vaccinated against mumps with the MMR vaccine,” Dr. Alexander Brzezny, health officer for Grant County, previously stated. “If you or your child develops symptoms of mumps, please see a healthcare provider, even if you have been vaccinated.”

Mumps is characterized as the swelling of the salivary glands, particularly those in the lower jaw. Most people who contract the virus will fully recover without any difficulty, but some adults can experience serious complications, including hearing loss and brain damage, according to a previous Columbia Basin Herald report.

The current treatment for mumps is bed rest, with people encouraged to stay home after the onset of symptoms. Symptoms could appear 12-25 days before exposure, but usually come around 16-18 days after exposure. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, and a loss of appetite.

“A person with mumps can spread the virus by coughing, sneezing, or spraying saliva while talking,” stated the GCHD in a release. “It can also be spread by sharing cups or eating utensils, and by touching objects or surfaces with unwashed hands that are then touched by others.”

The health district says the best way to control mumps is to get the MMR - mumps, measles, and rubella - vaccine. A single dose is recommended for pre-schoolers and low-risk adults, while two doses are recommended for school-age children and health care workers.

“If you or your child has symptoms of mumps (fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, loss of appetite, and swollen cheeks or jaw), call your healthcare provider immediately,” the health district recommended. “Stay home and away from other people and from public settings until you or your child has been evaluated by a healthcare provider.”

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.