SYMPTOMS OF MUMPS

ARECENT outbreak of mumps at residential schools in Terengganu and Selangor has revived concern about this viral disease.

While a vaccine has been available since the 1960s, it has not hindered outbreaks.

Mumps is defined as the swelling of the parotid glands, which are the salivary glands along the jawline and neckline. Sufferers often show symptoms of fever, muscle pain, headache, poor appetite and tiredness. TASNIM LOKMAN speaks to the Health Ministry’s deputy directorgeneral for public health, Dr Chong Chee Kheong, to know how contagious the disease is and what to avoid in an outbreak.