Mumps
Mumps is an infection that causes painful swelling on the cheeks and neck. It usually gets better within 2 weeks but sometimes it causes other problems. It's important to see a GP if you think you or your child have mumps.
If these symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.
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On this page
Mumps is an infection that causes painful swelling on the cheeks and neck. It usually gets better within 2 weeks but sometimes it causes other problems. It's important to see a GP if you think you or your child have mumps.
Check if you or your child have mumps
The main symptom of mumps is painful swelling around your cheeks and neck, which gets worse over a few days.
This may cause earache, or make it harder to chew, swallow or speak.
The swelling usually starts on 1 side of your face first before appearing on both.
Sometimes you may only get swelling on 1 side or not get any swelling at all.
Other symptoms of mumps include:
- headache
- high temperature
- muscle aches
- feeling tired
- not being as hungry as usual
These symptoms might start a few days before the swelling.
It's also possible to have mumps without any symptoms.
If you're not sure it's mumps
It's very unlikely to be mumps if you've had both doses of the MMR vaccine or you've had mumps before.
Speak to a GP if:
- you think you or your child may have mumps
- you or your child have been in close contact with someone who has mumps, and you've not had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine or had mumps before
The GP will arrange a test to confirm if it's mumps.
Mumps can spread to others easily. Speak to your GP surgery before you go in. They may suggest talking over the phone.
Things you can do if you or your child have mumps
Mumps usually gets better without treatment within 2 weeks.
After you've seen a GP, there are things you can do to help ease symptoms.
Do
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rest
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drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
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take paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with swelling, aches and pain (do not give aspirin to children under 16)
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gently hold a warm towel against the cheeks and neck to help with pain or discomfort
How to avoid spreading mumps
Mumps is caused by a virus that spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
If you or your child have mumps, you can reduce the risk of spreading it by:
- staying at home and avoiding other people if you're ill
- washing your hands often with soap and warm water
- using tissues when you cough or sneeze, and then putting them in the bin
- not sharing towels, bedding, clothes, cups or cutlery
Important
Stay off work or keep children out of school or nursery for at least 5 days after the swelling starts to avoid spreading the virus to others.
Complications of mumps
Most people with mumps get better within 2 weeks, but sometimes it can cause further problems, including:
- swollen testicles (balls) – called orchitis
- swollen ovaries
- meningitis
- pancreatitis
- temporary hearing loss in 1 ear
These are more likely if you get mumps as a teenager or adult, but they usually do not cause any serious long-term problems.
Go to A&E or call 112 if:
You or your child have mumps and:
- have a very bad headache
- are being sick (vomiting)
- have a stiff neck
- have a dislike of bright light
- are confused or disoriented
- have a fit or seizure
- pass out (faint)
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 112 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
Get vaccinated against mumps
The MMR vaccine helps prevent mumps.
The vaccine is offered to all children in the UK. 2 doses can give long-term protection against measles, mumps and rubella.
