What is mumps?
A person with mumps has a viral infection of the parotid gland, which makes saliva for the mouth. The infection causes inflammation and swelling of the parotid gland. A successful mumps vaccination program has made mumps very rare in the US. No more than 800 cases per year reported in the US.

What are the symptoms of mumps?
The most common symptoms of mumps is swelling and tenderness around the parotid gland, which is located under the jaw and in front of the ear. Additional symptoms of mumps include fever, neck pain, neck swelling, abdominal pain, headache, joint pain, sore throat, weakness, and fatigue. Males with mumps may have testicular pain or testicular swelling.

How does the doctor treat mumps?
There is no cure for mumps. General treatment for mumps includes rest, oral fluids, and acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain and fever.