| 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 10 months ago