AFTER a serious outbreak earlier this year and an increase in reported cases in recent weeks, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) has warned students to make sure they have been vaccinated for mumps.

Students should have had two doses of the MMR vaccine before they return to school or college because they are particularly vulnerable.

According to the centre, mumps has been on the increase since the beginning of 2008, particularly in the under-25 age group, following at least seven mumps outbreaks in third level facilities this year.

Dr Joan O’Donnell, a specialist in public health medicine with the HPSC, warned that “new students who haven’t been vaccinated or who haven’t had mumps need to talk to their GP or student health service about getting protected”.

“So far this year, 459 cases have been reported, 22 of whom were admitted to hospital. Almost 60% of cases have been in people aged 10 to 24. MMR protects against measles, mumps and rubella and two doses are needed to protect against infection. Anyone who is not sure about their vaccination status needs to get another dose to be on the safe side. The vaccine is free although an administration fee may apply for non-medical card holders.”

Anyone who has mumps is advised to stay off school or college for nine days after the onset of swollen glands.

Mumps is a contagious viral infection, which is most commonly spread through airborne droplets or through direct contact with an infected person/contaminated items.

Symptoms can include fever, headache and a swollen jaw or cheeks but can also result in more serious complications.