How to tell if mumps is viral or bacterial

Mumps can be caused by either viral or bacterial infection. To determine which pathogen it is, a doctor can make a judgment based on clinical symptoms and examination results.

1. Clinical symptoms: Bacterial mumps usually has an acute onset, rapid progression, and severe symptoms, manifested as obvious swelling and pain in the cheeks, usually accompanied by high fever. Viral mumps usually has a slower course and milder symptoms, manifested only as low-grade fever, and the swelling and pain in the cheeks are also milder than bacterial mumps.

2. Test results: Routine blood tests can be performed. Bacterial mumps usually show an increase in both white blood cells and neutrophils, while viral mumps may show an increase in the proportion of lymphocytes, but the increase in neutrophils and white blood cells is not obvious, and may even decrease.

Bacterial mumps needs to be treated with antibiotics as prescribed by a doctor, but there is no specific medicine for viral mumps, and symptomatic supportive treatment is the main treatment. During the treatment period, you must pay attention to rest more, drink plenty of water, and eat a light diet.