What to do with acute mumps in children

Acute parotitis in children first needs to be diagnosed by a doctor. Usually, a combination of medication, daily care and dietary adjustments are used to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Parents should take their children to the hospital for standardized examination and treatment as soon as possible when they find that their children have parotid swelling, fever or pain.

Acute mumps is mainly caused by viral infection. The most common pathogen is the mumps virus, which is mainly transmitted through airborne droplets. Its typical symptoms include swelling and tenderness in the parotid area, accompanied by fever and fatigue. Some severe patients may have complications such as meningitis and orchitis. In terms of treatment, if viral mumps is diagnosed, antibiotics are usually not required, but the main treatment is to relieve symptoms. Commonly used drugs include ibuprofen for fever and pain relief, and low-dose antihistamines for swelling and allergic reactions. If the condition is complicated, intravenous infusion support may also be required. Children should be allowed to rest more during home care and avoid excessive activity. Hot compresses can be used to relieve discomfort in swollen and painful areas. In terms of diet, semi-liquid or soft foods rich in vitamins should be provided to avoid acidic foods that stimulate saliva secretion and cause increased pain.

Parents should pay special attention to hygiene when caring for sick children and avoid letting their children come into contact with other children to reduce the risk of infection. If the condition continues to worsen, unexplained fever recurs, or signs of complications appear, they should return to the hospital immediately for further examination and treatment. Mumps is a preventable disease. Taking children to get the mumps vaccine in time is the most effective prevention method, which helps reduce the risk of infection.