lts); pneumonia is reported as accounting for 60% of deaths (Epidemiology, 1998, pp. 117-124; Novitt-Moreno, et al., 1998, pp. 1-4).
Mumps is a viral disease that can affect multiple body parts, particularly the parotid salivary glands. It is usually spread through the infected saliva or urine. It is more common in the spring and among children aged 5 to 9 years; it is rare in children less than 2 years old. Contagion lasts from 2 to 6 days prior to symptoms until 6 days to 2 weeks after symptoms (Epidemiology, 1998, pp. 139-141; KidsHealth at the AMA staff & Annunziato, 1999, pp. 1-4).
Symptoms include swollen and painful parotid glands (both; 2nd swelling after the first), for 1 to 3 days; the pain is worse if swallowing, talking, chewing or drinking acidic juices. Fever can be up to 103 degrees F; headache and appetite loss can occur. Other salivary glands can be affected, it can also involve the brain, pancreas, and other organs. Males can develop orchitis and decreased sperm count; women's ovaries (oophoritis) can be effected. Deafness by mumps is a leading cause of acquired sensorineural deafness in children and electrocardiogram changes can occur. Mumps can also lead to encephalitis (rare) or meningitis (occurring asymptomatically in 50%-60% and symptomatically in 15%). Less dramatic complicat
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