Cases of mumps found in St. Johns County, Duval County

One case of mumps has been confirmed in Duval County and two probable cases of mumps have been identified in St. Johns County, according to the Florida Department of Health.

Health officials say the three cases in the Jacksonville area are young adults who know each other, and public officials are working to notify more people who could be at risk of exposure.

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Public health officials are working to limit further exposure of the virus.

The mumps virus is highly contagious and spreads by talking, coughing or sneezing.

“In many instances, mumps is relatively mild, but it has the potential to cause long-term health problems,” said Kelli Wells, MD, Deputy Secretary for Health and Director of the Florida Department of Health in Duval County.

“The best way to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community from the spread of the mumps virus is to make sure your measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is current.”

Mumps can be prevented with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, so those who are up-to-date on their vaccinations should be protected.

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“These cases serve as a reminder for all residents to check their immunization records or contact their primary care provider's office to make sure they are up to date on the mumps vaccine as well as all recommended vaccines," said Dawn Allicock, MD, MPH, CPH, Director/Health Officer of the Florida Department of Health in St. Johns County.

If you or your child have not been vaccinated against mumps, or develop any of the following symptoms, please seek medical attention as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment:

•         Swelling of the cheeks and/salivary glands
•         Fever
•         Achy/tired feeling
•         Difficulty eating because of jaw pain
•         Men may experience testicular swelling
•         Women may experience breast or ovary pain

Cox Media Group