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Mumps cases in growing Wash. outbreak rise to 107

The state is currently experiencing a mumps outbreak. Photo: CDC / A. Harrison and F. A. Murphy

The number of mumps cases has just risen to 107 cases in a growing Washington state outbreak.

The holidays and events that come this time of year will likely fuel a growing mumps outbreak in King and Pierce counties, according to local health officials.

Usually King County sees between two and six mumps cases a year.

>> Related: Mumps outbreak reaches Seattle

Seventy-eight reported cases had been counted in 2016 with reports in King, Pierce, Spokane, and Yakima counties. On Tuesday, Dec. 20, the number of cases rose to 107, according to the Washington State Department of Health.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 46 states are experiencing an increase in mumps cases.

Health officials are concerned about infected people spreading the disease during a time when friends or family are visiting for Christmas.

>> Related: Health officials: King County mumps cases rise to 31 in 'emerging outbreak'

Washington Department of Health leaders said it comes down to people having what they call good respiratory etiquette, meaning people should not go to events or work when sick.

It’s not too late to get vaccinated, but it does take a couple of weeks for the vaccine to have maximum protection.

Here’s a question and answer section provided by the health department.

What is mumps?

Mumps is an illness caused by a virus that can cause fever, headache, and swelling of the cheeks and jaw. Most people recover from mumps in a few weeks. In rare cases, mumps can lead to more serious complications that may require hospitalization, including inflammation of the brain and spinal cord and deafness. Up to 30% of people with mumps infection will have no symptoms.

How is mumps spread?

A person with mumps can spread the virus by coughing, sneezing, or spraying saliva while talking. It can also be spread by sharing cups or eating utensils, and by touching objects or surfaces with unwashed hands that are then touched by others.

Who is at higher risk of getting mumps?

  • Infants who are too young to receive MMR vaccine (under 1 year of age).
  • Children over 1 year of age who are not fully vaccinated: Children should get two doses of MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12-15 months of age, and the second dose at 4-6 years of age. Teens and adults also should also be up to date on their MMR vaccination.
  • Adults born in or after 1957 who have not been vaccinated or have not previously had mumps disease.
  • If you are unsure whether you or your child have been vaccinated, please contact your health care provider.

How to prevent mumps

  • Make sure you and your children are up to date on MMR vaccine.Visit the Mumps Vaccination page to see recommendations for different groups.
  • Stay away from anyone who has mumps.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water.
  • Avoid sharing drinks or eating utensils.
  • Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys, doorknobs, tables, counters.

What to do if you have symptoms

  • If you or your child has symptoms of mumps (fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, loss of appetite, and swollen cheeks or jaw), call your healthcare provider.
  • Stay home and away from other persons and from public settings until you or your child has been evaluated by a healthcare provider.

What Public Health is doing

Investigation of infectious diseases is one of the essential services provided by Public Health - Seattle & King County. We will continue to identify and investigate any additional cases of mumps. We are also alerting healthcare providers and working with schools and communities in King County to provide education about preventing mumps. Increased cases of mumps have been identified nationwide, so we are sharing information and coordinating with the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health departments in other states.

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