Starting in late February, the mumps outbreak has flooded Temple University’s campus, leaving everyone frantically hiding in their dorms as they try to avoid the archaic disease.
According to Insidehighered.com, more than 100 confirmed and probable cases of the mumps have been diagnosed — making this a serious outbreak here in Philadelphia. However, you may have some questions about the mumps, since, you know, it hasn’t been a real issue since the vaccine was introduced in 1967. But don’t worry, I’ve compiled everything you need to know about this ancient disease that apparently will be sticking around on campus for quite some time.
What even is the mumps!?
According to Mayo Clinic, “mumps is a viral infection that primarily affects saliva-producing (salivary) glands that are located near your ears. Mumps can cause swelling in one or both of these glands.” Signs usually do not occur in the first two to three weeks after exposure. However, when you start experiencing symptoms, they will include:
- Pain in salivary glands or both sides of face
- Pain chewing or swallowing
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle fatigue
- Loss of appetite
How did it get to Temple?
The outbreak occurred right before spring break, however, it’s probably not possible to determine exactly how TU was introduced to the disease. One thing is for certain, though: St. Patties’ Day definitely did not help halt the spread of the disease. “Kiss me i’m Irish?” Yeah, probably not a good idea with the mumps going around.
What is the best ways to avoid the mumps?
Evacuate campus immediately! Just kidding. However, there is a petition going around to temporarily shut down Temple in attempt to end the mumps. Let’s just say, I would avoid kissing frat boys during these next few weekends. Honestly, to be really safe, you should abstain from sharing any food and drinks with friends, roommates and especially people you don’t know.
Even if you don’t follow any of this advice, at least get vaccinated or get a mumps booster shot. Seriously, please do.
Its spreading and it keeps spreading!
There has been reports of the mumps spreading from Temple University to Montgomery County. According to The Morning Call, a part-time student infected another Montgomery County resident. Recently, the mumps has possibly been taken to West Chester, where a student showed mumps-related symptoms following a visit to Temple.
Steps Temple and the community has taken
Now that nearly anyone who visits Temple University seems to leave with the mumps, senator Bob Casey has cancelled his visitation to Temple University because of the risk. It’s clear now more than ever, precautions have to be taken. Temple has announced the clinic days and hours that is free to all students and faculty. In addition, with insurance, you can receive a free mumps booster shot at the Rite Aid near campus. There has also been a rule implemented that all incoming freshman are required to be up to date on the MMR vaccinations series.
With over 100 cases, the disease spreading to nearby universities and Temple even being nicknamed “Mumple,” it seems as though we will not see the end of the mumps until the end of the spring semester.
As for now, stay cautious and safe with the decisions that you’re making — nothing is more important than your health.