Temple Students Diagnosed With Mumps

PHILADELPHIA — Several Temple University students have been diagnosed with mumps, according to the university.

The school said at least four students tested positive for mumps, which is a highly-infectious disease passed through saliva and respiratory secretions.

"One of the most important steps you can take if you experience symptoms is to self-isolate, avoid travel and limit contact with others for 5 days from the onset of symptoms," the school said in an announcement Thursday.

The incubation period is 12 to 25 days, but symptoms often appear 16 to 18 days after exposure.

Symptoms are similar to the flu and include tender swollen glands below the ear and along the jawline on one or both sides of the face and neck, headache, fever and cold-like symptoms.

Anyone who is experiencing symptoms or with questions should contact StudentHealth@temple.edu, the school said.

The university offered the following actions students can take to prevent the spread of mumps:

• Cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing; use your upper sleeve to cover your cough, not your hand.
• Wash hands frequently and efficiently. When unable to wash with soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid sharing food and drinks or participating in other activities that may result in saliva exposure.
• Stay home from school or work when you are sick to rest and limit the spread of illness to others. Students who are exhibiting symptoms should be aware that going home for Spring Break could expose family and friends to the illness.