Shiloh
Editor, Senior Moderator
Source: http://www.mayonews.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4797&Itemid=38
Major outbreak of mumps in Claremorris
Michael Commins
THE Claremorris region is currently experiencing one of its most serious outbreaks of mumps in years. Several young people from the area are ?down? with the illness while a number are receiving treatment in hospital.
Ballindine-based GP, Dr Ken Egan, confirmed yesterday (Monday) that doctors in the area were aware of the outbreak and expressed surprise that many who had received the immunisation vaccine were still contracting the infection.
?It is very unusual to have such a high incidence of mumps in an area. This has not happened for a long time. The vaccination programme which most young people received over the years was supposed to convey immunity to mumps.
?It is a viral infection and is very contagious. It can affect the whole body but usually manifests itself through glandular swelling on both sides of the face. Around 20 per cent can get what they call ?orchitis? and a small percentage of this group can encounter severe symptoms. It can have far more serious repercussions for males and in some cases can lead to loss of fertility.
?The incubation period is from 14 to 24 days and typical symptoms include headache, high temperature, glandular swelling and loss of appetite.
?Normally, it is self-treating but if those who have contracted the infection are worried about the nature of the symptoms, they should certainly visit their local GP who will assess the situation and reassure them,? says Dr Egan.
Former Mayo inter-county player and Claremorris club footballer Gary Mullins was one of those afflicted and he spent some time in Mayo General Hospital last week.
Major outbreak of mumps in Claremorris
Michael Commins
THE Claremorris region is currently experiencing one of its most serious outbreaks of mumps in years. Several young people from the area are ?down? with the illness while a number are receiving treatment in hospital.
Ballindine-based GP, Dr Ken Egan, confirmed yesterday (Monday) that doctors in the area were aware of the outbreak and expressed surprise that many who had received the immunisation vaccine were still contracting the infection.
?It is very unusual to have such a high incidence of mumps in an area. This has not happened for a long time. The vaccination programme which most young people received over the years was supposed to convey immunity to mumps.
?It is a viral infection and is very contagious. It can affect the whole body but usually manifests itself through glandular swelling on both sides of the face. Around 20 per cent can get what they call ?orchitis? and a small percentage of this group can encounter severe symptoms. It can have far more serious repercussions for males and in some cases can lead to loss of fertility.
?The incubation period is from 14 to 24 days and typical symptoms include headache, high temperature, glandular swelling and loss of appetite.
?Normally, it is self-treating but if those who have contracted the infection are worried about the nature of the symptoms, they should certainly visit their local GP who will assess the situation and reassure them,? says Dr Egan.
Former Mayo inter-county player and Claremorris club footballer Gary Mullins was one of those afflicted and he spent some time in Mayo General Hospital last week.