Mumps in the United States (Update)

07 Jul 2014

The mumps outbreak that began in Ohio State University in January 2014, is ongoing and 447 cases heve been recorded. A total of 155 students, 31 members of staff and 54 members of the public, linked to the university, have been affected. The outbreak has now spread to Indiana and North Carolina, where a student from each state became unwell shortly after returning home for the holidays.

The most recent Ohio case was reported on 23 Jun 2014. Cases have ranged in age from 6 months to 80 years old and 14 have required admission to hospital for treatment.

Advice for Travellers

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-15 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months, while unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves may consider vaccination if thought to be at risk. Two doses of MMR vaccine are required to give adequate protection.