A surge in mumps cases are increasing in the districts of Udaipur and Jaipur, raising concerns among health authorities and residents alike. In Udaipur  district alone, more than 50 cases are reported daily, with significant numbers flooding the Pediatrics, ENT, and Medicine departments of MB Hospital. Authorities have issued an alert, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

The Pediatrics unit of MB Hospital witnesses an average of 22, 8 or 10 cases daily. Moreover, 10 patients are undergoing treatment in hospitals supervised by the Medicine department, indicating a widespread impact. Dr. R.L. Suman, MB Hospital's director, disclosed that the average number of daily cases in the Pediatric unit are around 20, including private consultations.

Dr. Navneet Mathur, head of the ENT department, highlighted their daily influx of 7 to 8 patients, with additional cases directed to the Medicine department. The contagious nature of the virus is evident, with reports confirming six cases in Jaipur, signaling a regional spread.

Notably, mumps primarily affects children, although instances of adult contraction have been reported, often linked to exposure during children's coughing and sneezing. However, adults generally face lower risks compared to children due to acquired immunity or vaccination.

Experts stress the absence of a government-provided vaccine against mumps, recognising the importance of vaccination. Dr. Mathur underlined the lack of specific treatment for mumps, recommending soft foods to alleviate discomfort and urging avoidance of acidic or difficult-to-chew foods. 

Source: Dainik Bhaskar