CAMPUS NOTICE

 

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES

October 7, 2011



ALL ACADEMICS, STAFF AND STUDENTS AT UCSD

SUBJECT:    Health Alert - Notice to UCSD Campus about a Mumps Outbreak at UC Berkeley

This notice is to inform all UCSD students, faculty, and staff about a recent outbreak of mumps among the UC Berkeley campus community. Although no cases have been reported at UCSD, it is important to be informed and protect yourself.

What is mumps?
Mumps is a contagious viral infection that is spread by droplets of saliva or mucus, coming from the mouth, nose, or throat of an infected person. Most common symptoms develop 16-18 days after exposure to the virus (range 12-25 days). Treatment for mumps consists of getting plenty of rest and consuming fluids. Antibiotics are not useful. The infection resolves on its own within about 10 days, although in rare instances complications from mumps can occur.

What are the symptoms of mumps?
. Swollen/tender salivary glands under the ears, jaw, or tongue, on one or both sides of the face
. Fever
. Headache
. Muscle aches
. Tiredness
. Loss of appetite

As a precaution for students, if you have facial swelling along with any other of the above symptoms, or if you have been in contact with someone diagnosed with mumps, stay home and contact your Primary Care Provider or Student Health Services. Students may call Student Health during business hours at (858) 534-3302. After hours, an advice nurse can be reached at (858) 534-8089.

What should I do to protect myself? Review your vaccination records. Most UCSD students have received two doses of MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine during childhood, but if you are not certain or you do not have records that you have received two doses, we recommend that you be vaccinated. Two doses of the vaccine are more effective against mumps than one dose and prevent most, but not all, cases of mumps or mumps complications.

Wash your hands frequently or use a hand sanitizer. Cover your cough to reduce the spread of disease. Do not share eating utensils, drinking glasses, water bottles, etc. Avoid close contact with anyone who is ill.

Student Health is prepared if any cases should arise on our campus, and will take all appropriate steps to respond. For more detailed information please refer to the Student Health website, http://studenthealth.ucsd.edu. If questions remain, students should contact Student Health at (858) 534-3302. Faculty and staff can contact the Occupational Health Nurse (EH&S) at 858-534-8225.

Helpful Links:

Student Health Services web site: http://studenthealth.ucsd.edu/mumps.shtml
General information about mumps: www.cdc.gov/mumps/about/index.htm


Regina Fleming, MD, MSPH
Director
Student Health Services