The mumps outbreak that started in the University Campus area, has expanded to include the entire Edmonton area.

24 of the 51 confirmed Alberta mumps cases are in Edmonton.

 

mumps-infographic-VCH-1

 

Mumps is a contagious viral infection, symptoms include swelling and pain in the glands of the jaw and the feeling of having a bad flu.

 

Alberta Health Services is providing two free doses of the mumps vaccine to Edmontonians, and those living in the Edmonton area, who were born during or after the 70’s and haven’t had the proper dosage of the vaccine.

From the 1970s to the 1990s the practice was to only give one dose, Alberta Health Services now says two doses give the best protection.

 

If left untreated, mumps can sometimes lead to serious complications affecting the brain, testicles, ovaries or pancreas. It can also cause deafness in children.

 

-The Pepper & Dylan Show

 

 

 

**Images from: iNews880, Metro News**

Filed under: Alberta, health, Mumps, Yeg