Mumps Cases Rise in the US: What You Need to Know

Measles isn’t the only vaccine-preventable disease garnering attention. Health officials are reporting an increase in mumps cases across the United States, prompting concerns and a reminder of the importance of vaccination. As of February 19, 2026, the Maryland Department of Health confirmed 26 cases this year, including 19 confirmed and seven probable infections. Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 34 cases across 11 jurisdictions as of late February.

A History of Mumps and Vaccination

Mumps was a common childhood illness before the introduction of the mumps vaccine in 1967. The vaccine dramatically reduced the number of cases, decreasing from 152,209 in 1968 to 231 in 2003, according to the CDC. However, cases began to increase again in 2006.

How is Mumps Spread?

Mumps is a viral infection caused by the mumps virus. It primarily affects the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands located below and in front of the ears. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and saliva when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or shares drinks or utensils. Individuals are contagious several days before symptoms appear and for about five days afterward, making it easily transmissible in close-contact settings like schools, households, and college dormitories.

Recognizing Mumps Symptoms

The most common symptom of mumps is swelling of one or both parotid glands, causing puffy cheeks and jaw tenderness. Other symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Some individuals may similarly experience pain when chewing or swallowing.

Symptoms typically develop two to three weeks after exposure. Illness is often mild in children, with some experiencing only a low-grade fever or mild swelling, or even no symptoms at all. Adolescents and adults are more likely to experience more pronounced symptoms and complications, including higher fevers and more significant fatigue.

Potential Complications of Mumps

While many cases resolve without lasting problems, mumps can lead to serious complications. These include:

• Orchitis: Inflammation of the testicles, which can be painful and, rarely, lead to reduced fertility.
• Oophoritis and Mastitis: Inflammation of the ovaries and breast tissue, respectively.
• Meningitis: Inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord.
• Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain, a rare but potentially life-threatening complication.
• Hearing Loss: Permanent hearing loss, a rare complication.

Unvaccinated individuals are at the highest risk of infection and complications.

Treatment and Contagiousness

There is no specific antiviral medication for mumps. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Warm or cold compresses can help ease gland swelling.

Individuals diagnosed with mumps should stay home and avoid contact with others for five days after symptoms appear to prevent further spread. Seek medical care promptly if experiencing severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, persistent vomiting, or severe abdominal or testicular pain.

MMR Vaccine Effectiveness and Outbreaks

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective at preventing mumps, though slightly less so than measles or rubella. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are estimated to be about 86% effective, while one dose is about 72% effective.

No vaccine is 100% effective, and breakthrough infections can occur. These infections are typically milder. Outbreaks can occur even in highly vaccinated communities, particularly in close-contact settings, as immunity can wane over time.

Determining Your Mumps Immunity

Generally, individuals born before 1957 are presumed to have immunity. Those born in or after 1957 should have documentation of vaccination. If unsure, check vaccination records or consult a healthcare provider. A blood test can assess immunity in some cases.

Certain groups, including college students, healthcare personnel, and international travelers, should ensure they are fully vaccinated. During outbreaks, public health authorities may recommend a third dose of the MMR vaccine for those at increased risk.

Staying up to date on the MMR vaccine is safe and effective, protecting both individuals and the broader community.

As recent reports demonstrate, mumps has not been eradicated. Even small increases in cases underscore the importance of vaccination and a swift public health response in preventing the spread of preventable diseases.