The Arkansas Department of Health has identified three confirmed cases and one suspected case of mumps on the University of Arkansas campus in the last few weeks.

Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to make sure they are up to date on their Mumps Measles Rubella (MMR) vaccination and to seek care if they experience symptoms.

Pat Walker Health Center officials at the U of A are in close communication with Dr. Dirk Haselow, epidemiologist for the health department. Those who may have been exposed have received additional communication and information from the health center.

"The health, safety and well-being of our campus community are our top priorities," said Dr. Huda Sharaf, medical director for the health center. "We are taking every precaution necessary to ensure our students, faculty and staff have the best information and resources available to protect themselves and others."

Mumps is a vaccine-preventable contagious disease caused by a virus. It is best known for painful, swollen salivary glands that show up as puffy cheeks and swollen jaw.

The mumps virus —like the flu virus— spreads through droplets from coughing or sneezing, or eating and drinking after an infected person.

The best way to protect against mumps is to get the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, as well as practicing effective respiratory hygiene — washing hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, disinfecting surfaces, not sharing food and drinks.

"When contagious and infectious public health concerns impact our campus, it's imperative everyone is aware and ready to act," said Dr. Sharaf. "We encourage everyone to make sure they are up to date on the MMR vaccine, and to let their doctor know right away if they think they may have mumps"

A MMR vaccine booster is also available for anyone who has already had the recommended two doses, and wants to take additional steps to protect themselves. The MMR vaccine booster costs $100, and can also be billed to insurance. The MMR vaccine is a live vaccine, and not recommended for women who are pregnant or anyone with an immunodeficiency.

Students admitted to the University of Arkansas are required by Arkansas State Law to provide documentation of two MMR immunizations. The only exception to this law is a waiver due to medical, religious or philosophical reasons, which is approved by the Arkansas Department of Health annually.

If you need to receive the MMR vaccine, please contact the Allergy, Immunization and Travel Clinic at 479-575-7723, or schedule an appointment through the patient web portal at myhealth.uark.edu.

Mumps is best known for the puffy cheeks and swollen jaw it causes; however, other symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Tiredness
• Loss of appetite

Mumps can be serious, but most people recover completely within a few weeks. Someone with mumps is considered most contagious three days before the onset of symptoms, and until five days after jaw swelling develops.

If you believe you have been exposed to mumps, or experience symptoms, isolate yourself from others and call your doctor right away.

For more information, go to www.cdc.gov/mumps or health.uark.edu. If you have any questions, contact the Pat Walker Health Center at 479-575-4451, or email pwhc@uark.edu.