Mumps

Description of virus: Structure: Mumps virus shares many structural properties with the other paramyxoviruses.

Type: Mumps virus belongs to the genus Paramyxovirus and exhibits most characteristics of the Paramyxoviridae. It occurs only in a single serotype and shares minor common envelope antigens with other Paramyxovirus species.

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Viral Specificity: Part of the body: spreads through saliva and can infect many parts of the body,especially the paratid salivary glands.Thse glands,wich produce saliva for the mounth,are found toward the back of each cheek,in the are between the ear and jaw.

Hosts affected: Mumps infection are common on kids younger than 1 year old, and can also affect adults.

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Symptons: Case of mumps may start with a fever of up to 103°Fahrenheit(39.4°Celsius),as well a headache and loss of appetite.

Transmission: The mumps virus resides in the mucus in the nose and throat of the infected person, along with the saliva. When that person sneezes or coughs, droplets spray into the air. The infected mucus can land in other people's noses or throats when they breathe or put their fingers in their mouth, nose, or eyes after handling an infected surface.

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Treatment: Because mumps is caused by a virus,it cannot be treated with antibiotics.Monitor and keep track of your child's temperature.You can use nonaspirin fever medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to bring down a fever.These medicines will also help relieve pain in the swollen parotid glands.A child with mumps doesn't need to stay in bed, but may play quietly. Ask your doctor about the best time for your child to return to school.

Prevention:1-wash hands well and often with soap, and teach children to wash their hands.

2-don't share eating utensils or beverage containers.

3-Surfaces that are frequently touched (toys, doorknobs, tables, counters, etc.) should also be regularly cleaned with soap and water or with cleaning wipes.

4-Limit your contact with people who have known mumps symptons.

Resources accessed:

http://kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/mumps.html


http://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/mumps+virus