Mumps outbreak in Washington; health officials urge immunizations
Grays Harbor County Public Health & Social Services Department
As of December 28, 2016 no cases of mumps have been reported in Grays Harbor County; 124 cases* have been reported in Washington state, and health officials urge immunization.
*Confirmed and probable cases in WA as of 12/28/2016; cases have been reported in King, Pierce, Yakima and Spokane Counties.
Actions Requested
Consider symptoms of mumps virus.
Prodromal symptoms may occur with mumps and are nonspecific; they include myalgias, anorexia, malaise, headache, and low-grade fever.
Parotitis (inflammation and swelling of the parotid glands) is the most common manifestation of clinical mumps.
Advise patients on immunization status and urge immunization.
Remind patients that mumps can affect people of all ages.
Outbreaks most often occur on college campuses, among sports teams, and in other places with long-term close contact. People in these settings should make sure they are up to date on their MMR vaccine.
If you have a suspect case, please immediately contact Grays Harbor Public Health and Social Services for consultation. You can reach us at (360) 532-8631 during business hours, or after hours at (360) 581-1401.
MMR Vaccine Recommendations
Babies and children, who need two doses: Administer the first dose between 12 through 15 months of age. Administer the second dose between 4 through 6 years of age.
Adults born after 1956.
People at higher risk of contracting the virus, such as health care workers, college students, and international travelers.
MMR vaccine cannot be administered during pregnancy.
Washington State Trends of Reported Mump Infections:
Between 1992 and 2005: up to .5 per 100,000 persons or less (zero to 26 cases per year).
2006-2007: following the 2006 outbreak in the Midwest, there was increased awareness of mumps. 42 cases were reported in 2006, and 53 cases were reported in 2007.
After 2008: the rate of reports returned to pre-2006 levels.
2015: seven cases were reported.
Resources
Washington State Department of Health, Mumps Outbreak
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mumps
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Pink Book
For questions or further information, contact Lisa Leitz, RN, Communicable Disease Program Coordinator, at 532-8631 x4044.
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