Department of Health Reports Mumps Cases at Torrance County Detention Facility
Department of Health Reports Mumps Cases at Torrance County Detention Facility
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) is investigating seven mumps cases at the Torrance County Detention Facility.
Mumps is a highly contagious disease that is spread through the air and by droplets of saliva or mucus from the mouth, nose, or throat of an infected person, usually when the person coughs or sneezes. The virus can also spread through shared use of drinks, cups, or eating utensils and on occasion through contaminated surfaces. If you are exposed to mumps, you may become ill up to 25 days after the exposure.
“The best way to protect yourself and your community from mumps is to be vaccinated.” said NMDOH Secretary Kathy Kunkel. “Mumps and other diseases are not limited to isolated locations, they can be transmitted anywhere. Contact your healthcare provider or a pharmacy and protect you and those around you from infection."
The symptoms of mumps include:
- Swollen and tender salivary glands under the ear or jaw on one or both sides of the face
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
If you develop these symptoms, stay home and contact your healthcare provider. Do not go to work or school until five days after the onset of swollen and tender salivary glands, or until symptoms go away-whichever is later. Contact your health care provider before seeking medical care so as not to expose others to mumps in the waiting room.
Clinicians who suspect mumps should consult with NMDOH. New Mexico residents with questions about mumps you can contact the Department of Health in Santa Fe at (505) 827-0006.
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