What causes acute mumps in children?

Acute mumps in children is often caused by viral infection, especially mumps virus, followed by bacterial infection, autoimmunity or trauma. Prevention mainly relies on vaccination, and treatment mainly focuses on symptom relief and supportive care.

1. Viral infection: the most common cause

The primary cause of acute mumps is caused by the mumps virus, a virus that is transmitted through droplets and is highly contagious. Close contact environments such as kindergartens or schools tend to accelerate the spread of the disease. If children are not vaccinated with the mumps vaccine MMR vaccine, the risk of infection increases significantly. In addition to the mumps virus, other viruses such as Coxsackie virus and Epstein-Barr virus may also cause infection of the parotid gland. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent virus-related mumps.

2. Bacterial infection: rare but serious

If the parotid gland or surrounding tissues are infected with bacteria, it can also cause acute mumps. In this case, common pathogens are Staphylococcus aureus and hemolytic streptococci, which usually occur when oral hygiene is poor or the gland is blocked. Mumps caused by bacterial infection usually presents as unilateral parotid pain, local fever, redness and swelling, and possible suppuration. Antibiotic treatment is the main means, such as commonly used cephalosporins and penicillins.

3. Autoimmune problems: rare causes

Some cases of acute parotitis may be caused by an autoimmune disease, such as Sjögren's syndrome. This condition is rare, but it does exist medically. Children with this condition usually have long-term abnormal gland function. If this condition is suspected, a rheumatologist should be consulted as soon as possible.

4. Trauma or obstruction: potential factors that induce infection

If a child's parotid duct is injured or blocked by stones or lumps, saliva outflow may be blocked, thus inducing local infection. Trauma not only directly damages the gland, but may also cause gland swelling and pain. This type of parotitis requires local treatment or even surgical intervention, and the specific treatment depends on the cause.

5. Children’s factors: weak body resistance

Because children's immune systems are not fully developed, they are more susceptible to infection with related pathogens or external stimuli. Children with low immunity are more likely to suffer from mumps due to factors such as malnutrition, excessive fatigue and poor environmental hygiene. A balanced diet, good sleep and daily hygiene management can reduce children's risk of infection to a certain extent.

In principle, treatment is based on etiology and symptomatic support. Viral mumps usually does not require special medications, and symptoms are relieved mainly through antipyretics, antiviral drugs such as acyclovir, hydration and rest; bacterial mumps requires targeted antibacterial treatment; if it is caused by obstruction or other causes, it should be further examined and treated by a specialist.

In order to prevent children from contracting acute mumps, it is recommended to get vaccinated against mumps and develop good hygiene habits, especially during the peak influenza season, to avoid close contact with patients. If the parotid area is found to be obviously swollen or painful, or accompanied by high fever, difficulty eating and other symptoms, you should seek medical attention in time for a clear diagnosis and professional treatment.