How long does mumps last?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

The symptoms of mumps usually begin two or three weeks after you are exposed to the virus. Symptoms last about 16 to 18 days. You should consider yourself contagious during the first week following diagnosis.

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Stacy Wiegman, PharmD

If your partner, family member or someone around you has mumps, you should not get sick if you a...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Mumps is a viral disease also known as epidemic parotitis. It swells the parotid glands, which are s...

Stacy Wiegman, PharmD

Before the mumps vaccine was introduced, mumps caused deafness in some children. Widespread use ...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

If you have mumps and you experience abdominal pain, it could be a symptom of one of the many rare b...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Mumps

Mumps is a contagious viral infection spread by bodily fluids that causes uncomfortable symptoms like swelling of the salivary glands, fever, body aches, and fatigue. In some cases, people who contract mumps have no symptoms. Rarely, people will develop serious complications with mumps, including inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report less than 1000 cases annually, thanks to widespread vaccination. If you become ill with mumps, there is no treatment. You should isolate yourself from others to reduce the spread of the disease.

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