Atleast 69 cases of mumps, a viral disease leading to swollen salivary glands, headaches and fever, have been reported in Franklin County, Ohio.
According to the Columbus health officials, the viral disease has now spread beyond The Ohio State University’s campus in Columbus to other parts of the area. However, they maintained that the most victims of the disease are still connected to the school.
Out of the 69 cases reported so far, 52 people were found to be closely associated to the university.
“18 to 48 were the most affected age group,” said the health officials while adding “Though someone as young as 4 years old was affected outside the university.”
Meanwhile, Columbus Pubic Health Commissioner Dr. Teresa Long has asked the people to get themselves vaccinated to prevent the disease.
“Mumps can lead to serious complications in people who are not vaccinated, especially adults. If you have not been vaccinated against the mumps, or do not remember if you have received the protective vaccine, get vaccinated as soon as possible,’ Long said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the health experts also created awareness among the people about vaccinations, saying they are only 80 to 90 percent effective. It’s still possible to come down with mumps, they said.
Health experts and doctors have recommended the residents to wash their hands and stay home if they feel sick.
Mumps is caused by an organism called a paramyxovirus. It is transmitted through the mouth by tiny drops of saliva while talking, sneezing, coughing, sharing drinks or food and kissing.
