| Causative Agent | Mumps virus | Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) |
| Transmission | Respiratory droplets, direct contact with infected person | Saliva, close contact with infected person |
| Incubation Period | 12-25 days | 4-6 weeks |
| Common Symptoms | Swelling of salivary glands (parotitis), fever, headache, muscle aches | Sore throat, fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes |
| Other Associated Symptoms | Loss of appetite, difficulty chewing or swallowing | Fatigue, malaise, enlarged spleen |
| Complications | Orchitis (testicular inflammation) in males, meningitis, encephalitis | Splenic rupture (rare), hepatitis, anemia |
| Diagnostic Tests | Clinical examination, detection of viral RNA or antibodies in saliva or blood | Blood tests (e.g., monospot test, EBV-specific antibodies) |
| Treatment | Supportive care (rest, fluids, pain relievers) | Supportive care, rest, symptom management |
| Contagious Period | 2 days before to 5 days after onset of parotitis | Several weeks to months (can remain contagious) |
| Prevention | MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) | Avoiding close contact with infected individuals, practicing good hygiene |
| Post-Infection Immunity | Lifelong immunity against mumps | Lifelong immunity against the specific strain of EBV |
| Common Age Group Affected | Children and young adults | Adolescents and young adults |
| Geographic Distribution | Worldwide | Worldwide |
| School/Work Exclusion Policies | Typically excluded from school until swelling subsides and no fever | May need to avoid strenuous activities, depending on symptoms |
| Prognosis | Generally good, most cases resolve without complications | Generally good, but recovery may take several weeks |
Biology Ease Staff asked 2 years ago