Multiple Mumps Cases Reported In NJ As Officials Urge Caution

NEW JERSEY — Officials are warning New Jersey residents to be vigilant as eight suspected cases of mumps have been reported in the state, the New Jersey Department of Health said Tuesday.

The eight cases of mumps — a highly contagious disease caused by a virus — all come from one family cluster in Hunterdon County and are related to international travel, officials said.

Also in New Jersey so far this year, one case of measles — another virus that can be prevented by the same vaccine as that for the mumps virus — has been confirmed, according to officials.

"With these cases of vaccine-preventable diseases across the state and country, NJDOH is urging individuals, especially parents, guardians, and caregivers, to be aware of the symptoms of these highly contagious viruses and to stay up to date with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) shots," the New Jersey Department of Health said.

Children are recommended to receive two doses of MMR, starting with the first dose at 12 to 15 months old, and the second dose at 4 to 6 years old, according to officials.

"Individuals who have not received two MMR shots or are unaware of their history should reach out to their health care provider to check their immunity levels, especially if traveling," officials said, adding that the shots are also available at many pharmacies, local health departments, and qualified health centers.

Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Kaitlan Baston added that since the viruses are "incredibly contagious" you should call ahead before the doctor if you suspect you may have been infected.

Symptoms of mumps can start with fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, and loss of appetite, officials said. Later, it appears as a swelling of the salivary glands or puffy cheeks and a tender, swollen jaw. Swollen glands can include swelling of brain, testicles, ovaries, or breast tissue, which can cause complications such as brain inflammation, deafness, or infertility later in life, according to officials.

For measles, symptoms appear about one to two weeks after exposure and start as a high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery or red eyes, according to officials. Three to five days after the initial symptoms, a measles rash appears. Measles can also cause neurologic or brain complications for people later in life, officials said.

Symptoms for rubella are mild and are similar to measles, but rubella can be very dangerous for pregnant people and can cause birth defects, miscarriage, or death for babies shortly after birth, according to officials.

"As a physician and as a mom, I understand what it is like to try to keep your kids and your family healthy," Baston said. "The best way to keep you and your loved ones safe is to get the MMR shot. If you or your family have not gotten the shot, now is the time."