What is mumps?

Mumps is an infectious disease caused by a virus and is mainly transmitted through saliva droplets and close contact. In order to prevent mumps, vaccination is the most effective way, and personal hygiene should be paid attention to, such as washing hands frequently.

1. Cause: Mumps is caused by the mumps virus, which belongs to the mumps virus family. The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets, especially in crowded environments. Children and adolescents are the most susceptible groups, especially if they are not vaccinated, and epidemics are prone to breakouts.

2. Transmission route: mainly through saliva droplets, such as coughing, sneezing, and through the use of contaminated objects, such as shared tableware, etc. Close contacts are easily infected, and kindergartens, schools and other places are the main places of transmission.

3. Prevention: The mumps vaccine (usually combined with the measles and rubella vaccine, called the MMR vaccine) is the most effective prevention measure. Hygiene habits are also important, including washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes with tissues or handkerchiefs, and not sharing eating utensils.

4. Treatment: There is currently no specific antiviral drug for mumps, and treatment is mainly symptomatic supportive treatment. Common methods include resting, drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration, using hot compresses to relieve pain and swelling in the parotid area, and using over-the-counter analgesics such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve pain and fever symptoms.

Mumps is a common infectious disease, but it can be prevented through effective vaccination and good personal hygiene habits. Although there is currently no specific drug to completely cure mumps, maintaining appropriate treatment measures can significantly reduce the symptoms it causes and reduce the risk of transmission. Parents should ensure that their children are vaccinated on time and educate their children to develop good hygiene habits. If related symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time to obtain expert advice and help.