Although the largest outbreak of mumps in a decade is sweeping the country, including more than 2,000 cases in Arkansas, no cases of mumps have been reported at Baxter Regional Medical Center, according to Stephanie Free, an infection preventionist at the hospital.
Most cases in Arkansas have been in the northwest corner of the state at the University of Arkansas and the University of Missouri has also reported an outbreak. With the Christmas travel season upon us, Free and other medical specialists are concerned about the mumps being spread to other parts of the state, including the Twin Lakes Area.
Free says the mumps is a highly contagious viral infection.
Listen:
right-click to download mp3
Some people who have the mumps may not show symptoms, according to Free.
Listen:
If someone suspects they have the mumps, they need to immediately see their physician.
Listen:
Practicing good hygiene is the best prevention against the mumps, according to Free.
Listen:
If an outbreak of the mumps occurs, the Arkansas Department of Health recommends vaccinations or booster shots for those previously vaccinated, inclduing adults.
Listen:
Although no mumps have been reported in the Twin Lakes Area, Free says 15 counties in Arkansas experienced outbreaks of the mumps after the Thanksgiving holiday. She cautions anyone traveling to areas where mumps has been diagnosed to practice good hygiene and if anyone believes they may have the mumps, to contact their physician as soon as possible.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI