Pune observes surge in mumps cases

By: Pune Pulse

November 18, 2023

Pune: There has been a sudden increase in the number of mumps cases among children, marking a significant increase in around five years.

As per the information provided, the MMR vaccine, manufactured by the Serum Institute of India, can be obtained for less than Rs 600 per dose. The Indian Academy of Paediatrics advises administering three doses of the vaccine at nine months, 15 months, and five years of age. Additionally, the Government of India (GoI) organizes MMR vaccine campaigns too.

As per the information received, measles and rubella are recognized for their heightened virulence and potential long-term consequences. It induces swelling on the cheeks and can result in high fever and difficulty in swallowing. The swelling can also become infected with a bacterial infection. In severe cases, mumps can lead to illness and even give rise to complications such as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which may necessitate hospitalization due to severe abdominal symptoms. In males, it can also lead to orchitis, a reduction in testicular volume, and temporary sub-fertility.

As per the information provided, mumps typically cause pain, tenderness, and swelling in one or both parotid salivary glands located in the cheek and jaw area. Three positive cases of the mumps virus have been reported, which is uncommon during this time. This highlights the importance of increasing MMR vaccine coverage in the community.

As per the information received, the recent increase in cases of viral parotitis among children may be due to weather conditions. He explained that cooler nights and warmer days could be contributing to the replication of the virus.

While most cases are in children aged 5-10 years, with symptoms including swelling on the face, pain, difficulty in eating, weakness, headache and fever, tests are needed to confirm if the cases are caused by the mumps virus.