MUMPS FAST FACTS

■ Mumps is a highly contagious viral infection that is generally marked by painful swelling of the head and neck glands, which can make the cheeks puff out.

■ Other symptoms may include fever, headache, earache, sore throat, pain when swallowing, tiredness, poor appetite, vomiting and muscle aches.

■ Mumps typically goes away on its own after 10 days. In rare cases, it can cause swelling of the testicles and ovaries, meningitis and hearing loss.

■ The illness spreads when a person comes in contact with droplets produced by coughing or sneezing, sharing food and drinks, kissing or touching infected items. It can be passed seven days before and up to nine days after symptoms appear.

■ There is no cure for mumps.