Mumps outbreaks have been reported across several states in India since 2023. In Kerala, cases have skyrocketed from an average of 2,500 cases annually to 74,907 cases in 2024.
Expert Concerns:
- There is a growing call to consider immunisation against mumps to prevent future outbreaks.
- With the sharp increase in mumps cases, some experts warn that the disease is becoming an emerging public health problem.
About Mumps
- Mumps is an acute viral illness primarily affecting children and young adults.
- It spreads via direct contact or airborne droplets from infected individuals.
- The disease is generally self-limiting, with most patients recovering in about two weeks through rest and symptomatic management.
Public Health Perspective:
- Although mumps is vaccine-preventable, its low mortality profile has meant that the mumps vaccine has not been included in India’s Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP).
- In contrast, measles, a more severe and highly infectious disease, has traditionally been prioritized for elimination through immunisation.
(Source: TH)
