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Communicable Diseases Agency

Mumps

Mumps is a viral infectious disease caused by the mumps virus that typically affects the salivary glands.

Last updated on 7 November 2025

What is mumps?

Mumps is a viral infectious disease caused by the mumps virus that typically affects the salivary glands. The disease occurs worldwide.

How is mumps transmitted?

Mumps is primarily transmitted through inhalation or direct deposition of infectious respiratory particles when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted via contact with contaminated surfaces such as when a person touches these contaminated surfaces and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.

The incubation period is typically 16 to 18 days, ranging from 12 to 25 days.

What are the symptoms of mumps?

Mumps infection can be asymptomatic.

In cases where symptoms develop, they include:

  • Painful swelling of one or both salivary glands

  • Mild fever

  • Fatigue

  • Loss of appetite

Mumps infection can lead to complications including:

  • Painful swelling of one or both of the gonads (epididymis and testes in males, ovaries in females)

  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)

  • Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)

  • Meningitis (inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord)

  • Loss of hearing

Certain complications could eventually lead to death or permanent disability.

What are the risk factors?

Risk factors include:

  • Persons who are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated against mumps

  • Persons with weakened immune systems

  • Persons travelling or living in areas with ongoing transmission or outbreaks

How is mumps treated?

There is no specific treatment for mumps. Treatment focuses on managing and relieving the symptoms of the disease.

How to prevent mumps?

Vaccination is the most effective preventive measure for mumps. The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended under the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS).

Other preventive measures include:

  • Practise good personal hygiene at all times.

  • Wash your hands regularly with soap, especially before handling food or eating, after going to the toilet, or when hands are dirty from coughing or sneezing.

  • Avoid touching your face, including eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

  • Avoid sharing of food/drinks or eating utensils.

  • Wear a mask and seeking medical attention promptly when unwell.

Please refer to Health advice for travellers for additional precautions to take when travelling.