Elon works to prevent outbreak after student found with mumps
An Elon University student has a confirmed case of the mumps, officials said Tuesday.
The cause of the infection is unknown, and no other cases have been identified, according to the Alamance County Health Department.
"We are working with our university and state public health partners to identify those who may have had contact with the confirmed case and will provide assessment and additional vaccine, as needed," county Health Director Stacie Saunders said in a statement.
Mumps is a viral illness best known for causing parotitis, a swelling of the salivary glands below the ears and above the jaw. Other common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. The virus is spread through close contact, such as kissing, drinking from a cup after someone else, coughing or sneezing.
Students exhibiting such symptoms are urged to make an appointment with Elon Student Health Services by calling 336-278-7230. Others who are concerned about symptoms are encouraged to call their primary health care providers or an urgent care, or they can call the Alamance County Health Department at 336-516-7715 to speak with a public health nurse.
The infected student has received the two doses of the mumps, measles and rubella vaccine recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, officials said. MMR vaccine prevents most, but not all, cases of mumps and complications caused by the disease.
According to the CDC, mumps outbreaks can still occur in highly vaccinated U.S. communities, particularly in close-contact settings like college campuses. High vaccination coverage helps limit the size, duration and spread of mumps outbreaks.
Elon officials said the university enforces a state requirement that all incoming students provide evidence of two vaccinations against mumps or proof of immunity. Nearly all students at Elon have had both of their mumps vaccines, they said.
Alamance County has not had a confirmed case of mumps in the last 10 years.
