Mumps Outbreak at University of Idaho

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Public health officials say an outbreak of mumps has erupted among University of Idaho students.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare has confirmed 10 cases of mumps on campus, and more than 20 additional reports are being investigated both on campus and off in the northern Idaho town of Moscow. Health officials are encouraging students to check their vaccination records during the holiday break to verify they are up to date on their measles, mumps and rubella vaccination.

Mumps is spread through droplets of saliva from an infected person's cough or sneeze. It can also be spread by sharing drinking glasses or utensils. It is a contagious disease with symptoms including fever, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. The most common complication is testicular inflammation in adults. Prior to the vaccine, mumps was common infants, children and young adults.