This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Mumps is a viral infection that classically swells the salivary glands below the ears, giving a child painfully puffy cheeks and jaw, with fever and headache. Most children recover within two weeks. Complications such as testicular inflammation in adolescent boys make medical review worthwhile.
Symptoms
Painful swelling on one or both sides of the face below the ears
Fever
Headache
Pain when chewing or swallowing
Tiredness and poor appetite
Testicular pain and swelling in adolescent or adult males
Causes & risk factors
Mumps virus spread by saliva and respiratory droplets
Close contact in schools and households
No previous infection or vaccination
Treatment & self-care
Rest, fluids, soft foods and paracetamol-type relief manage symptoms while the infection clears on its own; cold or warm compresses ease the swelling. Keep the child away from school until at least five days after the swelling started. Severe headache, abdominal pain or testicular swelling needs prompt review.
See a doctor urgently if
Severe headache with stiff neck, vomiting or drowsiness
Testicular pain or swelling
Severe abdominal pain
Hearing problems during or after the illness
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Mumps?
Early signs often include painful swelling on one or both sides of the face below the ears, fever, headache. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Mumps be treated?
Rest, fluids, soft foods and paracetamol-type relief manage symptoms while the infection clears on its own; cold or warm compresses ease the swelling. Keep the child away from school until at least five days after the swelling started. Severe headache, abdominal pain or testicular swelling needs prompt review.
When should I see a doctor about Mumps?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: severe headache with stiff neck, vomiting or drowsiness; testicular pain or swelling; severe abdominal pain; hearing problems during or after the illness.