A surge in mumps cases has been observed across multiple states of India in recent months, with Delhi-NCR now reporting a significant number of incidences of the viral infection. The resurgence of mumps, characterized by acute flu-like symptoms and salivary gland inflammation, has raised concerns among healthcare professionals.
Mumps, caused by a viral infection, primarily affect children and young adults, manifesting as fatigue, muscle pain, loss of appetite, headache, fever, and painful swelling in the salivary glands. While the disease typically resolves within a week without major complications, some individuals may experience prolonged discomfort, including testicle inflammation and other complications.
According to government data, the cumulative count of mumps cases had reached 15,637 by March 2024, reflecting a significant rise in infections, particularly from states like Kerala, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
The resurgence of mumps can be attributed to various factors, including reduced vaccine coverage, reduced immunity over time, increased social contact among children in schools, and environmental factors like poor hygiene practices and inadequate sanitation.
Despite the availability of a vaccine, mumps has not been included in India’s universal immunization program (UIP) due to its comparatively low mortality rate. The national immunization policy continues to place a strong focus on illnesses like measles because of their higher risk of infection and serious health consequences.
Dr. RD Srivastava, head of the department of pediatric medicine and neonatology at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute in New Delhi, noted a rise in mumps cases in the capital city, albeit not at the hotspot levels seen in other states. Similar observations were echoed by Dr. Neha Rastogi Panda, an infectious disease expert at the Fortis Memorial Research Institute in Gurugram, who emphasized the possibility of heightened consequences and community outbreaks.
The prevention of the mumps depends on regular vaccinations and following preventive measures such as good cleanliness, masking, and keeping a safe distance. Individuals experiencing symptoms of mumps are advised to seek timely medical advice and practice appropriate isolation measures to prevent further transmission.
Certain population groups, such as older individuals, those with compromised immunity, and pregnant women, are at an increased risk of acquiring mumps and are advised by medical professionals to exercise extra caution.
Dr. Srivastava emphasized the importance of educating the public on preventive measures to mitigate the impact of the mumps outbreak amidst evolving environmental and health challenges.
The resurgence of mumps across Indian states underscores the importance of vaccination, hygiene practices, and public awareness in controlling the spread of the viral infection. Vigilance and proactive measures are essential to protecting individuals and communities from the consequences of mumps outbreaks.
(Input from various media sources)
(Rehash/ Susmita Bhandary/MSM)
