Small increase in local mumps cases

WATERLOO REGION — Three confirmed cases of the mumps have been reported in Waterloo Region so far this year, mirroring a widespread bump in the virus’s activity.

“It’s definitely something people should be aware of, but the risk is pretty low because most of our population is immunized,” said Kristy Wright, manager of infectious diseases for Region of Waterloo Public Health.

“There’s no need to panic. We’re quite used to having this cyclical activity with mumps.”

There’s been increased mumps activity across Ontario, as well as Canada and the United States.

“It is circulating. There is sporadic activity,” Wright said.

In Guelph, there are three confirmed cases among university aged people linked to a keg party held in mid-January. Two more suspected cases are being followed.

Toronto Public Health is investigating a mumps outbreak in the city. There were 43 confirmed cases by March 15.

Wright said people should check their immunization records to ensure they’ve received two mumps vaccines, which is needed for optimal protection. The first dose is given around the first birthday, and the second between four and six.

Some people only received one dose as a child. They can get a second dose now.

Those most affected by the recent spike in mumps activity are people 17 to 35 years old. It’s thought the longer the time from the second dose, the more susceptible a person may be.

“We do see some waning effect, especially as you get older,” Wright said.

The virus is spread through droplets and requires close contact. That can include sharing drinks, kissing, and coughing or sneezing within one metre.

“It tends to be a very social age group,” Wright said. “That might contribute to spread among that age group.”

Symptoms include fever, headache, and swelling in the salivary glands, Wright said. “There are a lot of people who just have respiratory symptoms.”

Complications such as meningitis are possible but rare, and most people are better in about a week.

Mumps activity goes in cycles and, fortunately, large outbreaks are rare because of high immunization rates, Wright said. Last year, there was one case in the region.

“And in other years we have none at all,” she said.

The virus has a long incubation period, upwards of 25 days before symptoms appear.

“You can be contagious but not show any symptoms,” said Chuck Ferguson, spokesperson for the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health.

He said the department is watching to see if anyone in contact with the current cases develops mumps to know if it’s spreading in the community and who is at risk.