Mumps, oh no, it's starting to spread.

The Samarinda City Health Office has issued a letter regarding the Alert for Mumps Disease that is starting to spread.
Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a viral infection that can affect the parotid glands (glands that produce saliva, located below the ear), leading to swelling in the cheeks and jaw.

Mumps occurs due to the paramyxovirus. This virus can easily spread to others through saliva or mucus that comes out of the mouth or nose. If not addressed promptly, it can lead to complications for the patient, such as the spread of a viral infection to the brain and hearing loss.

The spread of the mumps virus can occur when:
1. Inhaling mucus droplets when the infected person coughs, sneezes, and talks
2. Having direct contact with the infected person, such as kissing
3. Touching objects around the infected person, then touching the nose and mouth without washing hands first
4. Sharing eating and drinking utensils with the infected person

The symptoms of Mumps include:
1. Swollen cheeks, which can occur on one side or both sides, due to the swelling of the parotid glands
2. Pain when chewing or swallowing food
3. Fever up to 39°C
4. Dry mouth
5. Headache
6. Joint pain
7. Abdominal pain
8. Easy fatigue
9. Loss of appetite

Dear Hermina's friends, be careful as well, if you experience serious symptoms, such as:
1. Severe headache
2. Decreased consciousness or fainting
3. Seizures

The doctor will examine the swollen cheeks and neck of the patient, as well as check the condition of the throat and tonsils (adenoids) of the patient. To ensure the diagnosis, the doctor will conduct supporting examinations in the form of:
1. A swab test on the inner cheek
2. A blood test to detect viral infections in the blood
3. A urine test to confirm and detect the spread of infection to the urinary tract

Dear Hermina friends, to prevent getting Mumps, you can do the following:
1. Regularly wash your hands with soap and running water
2. Do not share bathing or eating utensils with the infected
3. Practice cough etiquette, such as covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing and sneezing

For Hermina Friends who want further consultation, you can directly visit RSU Hermina Samarinda.

Source:
Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia

Revisado por: dr. Helsa Eldatarina, Sp.PD