It's a growing concern for health regions across Saskatchewan. Health authorities are eyeing the reported cases of mumps around the country with alarm and are encouraging residents to ensure that they are prepared.

Tania Diener, Medical Health Officer for the Regina-Qu'appelle Health Region and acting in the same capacity for the Sun Country Health Region, explained that it is easily spread.

"Mumps is an infection that is basically caused by a virus. It can spread between people through saliva and respiratory droplets, for instance when they are coughing or sneezing, or if any of those droplets end up on an item and someone touches that, then touch their eyes and mouth."

She added that those who routinely share items like eating utensils, water bottles, lipstick, and cigarettes can actually contribute to the spread of the virus.

"I would say that about 30 percent of people might actually be asymptomatic when they contract it. Otherwise, it can start off pretty much like any other viral disease."

Some of the symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle ache
  • Tiredness
  • No appetite

"However, the most recognizable part of the mumps is a swelling of the cheeks and jawline area of the neck. It can be on just one side, or both."

She said that the most important preventative measure is immunization.

"At this point in time it's recommended that you get two doses of vaccine. Older people might not need any, as they grew up in an era when the disease was actually more common, and they would have immunity as a result. Those born after 2001 should have had two doses of mumps-containing vaccine."

Diener added that those who don't know their immunization state, or have any doubts as to the number of vaccinations that they have, should contact their local public health office. 

There are other ways to help avoid contracting this virus as well, including:

  • Coughing and sneezing etiquette  
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water
  • Frequently cleaning surfaces that are touched often
  • Do not share personal items, such as eating utensils, water bottles, lipstick, etc.

"If you do get symptoms, contact your local healthcare provider. Do not sit in the waiting room, because we do not want you spread this disease."

She related that it can be spread as many as 7 days before the symptoms are developed, and up to 5 days after or longer.

In addition, there is no specific treatment. As it is a viral disease, antibiotics will be ineffective.

"The most important thing is to get lots of rest and fluids, eat healthy, and do not school, daycare, or work until at least 5 days after you've started having the swollen glands."

Diener also shared the thoughts that the health community has regarding the outbreak.

"At this point in time, we don't have any mumps cases in the province. However, the concern is that it's all around us. There are cases in B.C., Alberta, Manitoba, and further east. Many of the cases in our neighboring provinces are among members of hockey teams, groups that travel a lot, including in our province, to compete. They also might be of an age group where they have friends here. So there is definitely the possibility that we could see mumps provincially in the next little while because of that."

She revealed that they are on the alert, and are encouraging people to ensure that they are properly vaccinated. 

"It's better to be prepared and protected, than to be surprised by it."

She expressed that at this time it's not a large concern for the general public, however, it could have an impact on the sports teams that travel to other provinces. 

Their primary plan of attack at the present is to spread awareness of the symptoms and prevention.