Mumps Outbreak at Syracuse University

Mumps is making it's way through Syracuse University. 14 cases have been confirmed on the campus so far.

Lacrosse practice and scrimmages for men and women have been cancelled for the next several weeks with both teams contracting mumps according to the Daily Orange.

“Our student-athletes’ safety, and the safety of all students, faculty and staff, remains our top priority,” said director of athletics John Wildhack.

8 students had contracted mumps on the campus October 6th. Over the weekend that number jumped to 14 and all have been 'isolated.'

Mumps is a disease caused by a virus that you can catch from an infected person's cough or sneeze or direct contact with an infected surface. You feel sick and a salivary gland between your jaw and ear will swell. You can even contract the disease if you've been vaccinated. In fact, every Syracuse student who has contracted mumps has been properly vaccinated, according to SU Health Services.

Help prevent the spread of mumps

• Don’t share drinks or eating utensils.
• Cover your mouth/nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Refrain from kissing and other intimate activity.
• Don’t share cigarettes and e-cigarettes.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces like sinks, doorknobs and tables.
• At the first sign of symptoms, visit a doctor.

Symptoms of mumps

• fever
• headache
• muscle aches
• tiredness
• loss of appetite
• swollen and tender salivary glands under the ears on one or both sides

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