Three new confirmed cases of mumps reported in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- The City of Milwaukee Health Department has received reports of additional confirmed cases of mumps in the city.

The total is now at seven cases, one of which is confirmed to be associated with UWM.

The MHD continues to coordinate closely with university health centers and health care providers. At this time, health officials continue to ask students and public to know their vaccination status and be aware of symptoms.

Mumps is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the mumps virus.

It is spread by airborne droplets and contact with saliva or mucus from infected persons.

Mumps can be transmitted through coughing and sneezing as well as sharing food or beverage items and utensils with infected individuals.

Symptoms of mumps include fever, body aches, headaches, and swelling of the salivary glands near the ears and jaw. Anyone who experiences these symptoms should contact his/her health care provider for diagnosis and testing.

The MHD recommends that persons experiencing symptoms consistent with mumps infection, especially swelling of one or both salivary glands, stay home from work or school for a minimum of five days after the onset of swelling.