Recent Cases of Mumps
We would like to make the Vassar community aware that there have been some recent cases of mumps at colleges in our region. Mumps is a viral illness that causes fever and swelling of the salivary glands. Since the majority of students have been immunized against mumps the illness is rare but nevertheless can sometimes occur in individuals living in close proximity such as college students.
Below are some health practices students can use to reduce the spread of any viral illnesses common during the winter months in college communities:
- Wash hands well
- Do not share water bottles, eating utensils or anything else that may have come in contact with saliva
- Do not share makeup or lip balms
- Avoid exchanging saliva when ill
We also encourage students to get a flu shot - flu immunization clinics are being held for students at the Health Service Office on Nov. 9, Nov. 16 and Nov. 23 from 1 pm to 4 pm.
For answers to frequently asked questions about mumps, please visit: http://www.cdc.gov/mumps/outbreaks/outbreak-patient-qa.html or contact the Health Service Office.
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