Every thing you want to know about Mumps

Mumps (Infectious Parotitis)

Definition of Mumps:

-          acute viral disease manifested by the swelling of one or both parotid glands, occasional involvement of other glandular structures, particularly the testes in male.

Etiologic Agent: Paramyxovirus found in the saliva of infected person

Incubation Period: 14-25 days (ave. 18 days)

Period of Communicability of Mumps:

6 days before and 9 days after the onset of parotid gland swelling;

48-hour period immediately preceding onset of swelling is considered the time of highest communicability.

Clinical Manifestations of Mumps:

1. Sudden headache

2. earache

3. loss of appetite

4. fever

5. swelling of the parotid gland which is located in front and below the ear.

Treatment Modalities of Mumps:

-          Anti-viral drugs

-          Relief of pain from parotid swelling can be afforded by the application of hot or cold.

Nursing Management of Mumps:

1. Medical Aseptic protective care

a.       patient should be cared for in a single-occupancy room

b.      susceptible individuals must use mask and must wash hands regularly.

c.       oral care and personal hygiene is a must.

2. General Management of the disease

a.       bedrest is encouraged to avoid complications

b.      diversional activities for less ill patient

3. Diet

a.       soft & semisolid foods

b.      avoid acid foods, like fruit juices.