Mumps, 2011

During 2011, 2 cases of mumps were reported. Both cases were laboratory confirmed; 1 was confirmed by PCR and the other by IgM serology. Neither case was epidemiologically linked, demonstrating that asymptomatic infections are occurring, and suggesting that mumps is underdiagnosed.

Both cases were adults between 30 and 50 years of age (born after 1957). Neither case had documentation of mumps vaccine; however, 1 case reported being immunized, and the other case reported having mumps in childhood.

Mumps surveillance is complicated by nonspecific clinical presentation in nearly half of cases, asymptomatic infections in an estimated 20% of cases, and suboptimal sensitivity and specificity of serologic testing. Mumps should not be ruled out solely on the basis of negative laboratory results. Providers are advised to test for other causes of sporadic parotitis including parainfluenza virus types 1 and 3, Epstein-Barr virus, influenza A virus, group A coxsackievirus, echovirus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, human immunodeficiency virus, and other noninfectious causes such as drugs, tumors, and immunologic diseases.

• For up to date information see>> Mumps
• Full issue>> Annual Summary of Communicable Diseases Reported to the Minnesota Department of Health, 2011