Full Notification

For immediate release: 12/22/2016
Contact: Mende Kemper
Lincoln County Health Department

Phone: 636-528-6117 x 411
Subject: Mumps Virus Affecting Lincoln County    

Mumps Virus Affecting Lincoln County
As of Thursday, December 22, 2016, mumps virus has been confirmed in the region, including Lincoln County. Lincoln County Health Department is working closely with affected individuals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a higher than usual number of cases of mumps for 2016 and more cases are anticipated.

 In most people, mumps is a mild illness, but it can sometimes lead to serious health problems.  The symptoms of mumps can include fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, loss of appetite, and swelling of the salivary glands located in front of each ear which makes the person look like they have swollen cheeks.  People who are experiencing symptoms should stay home and call their health care provider.

There are many steps you can take to help protect against mumps virus. Immunization is the best protection.  Handwashing and covering sneezes and coughs can also help stop the spread of illness.  Mumps virus spreads through coughs, sneezes, and touching contaminated objects.  A person may become ill between 12 to 25 days after they are exposed to the virus.  

Residents should check with their health care provider to ensure they are up-to-date on vaccines. School-aged children are required to have two doses of mumps vaccine (MMR).  Adults who were born during or after 1957 who do not have evidence of immunity against mumps should have at least 1 dose of MMR vaccine.

If you have additional questions, please contact your health care provider or the Lincoln County Health Department at (636) 528-6117.