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Student Health Services

Mumps Information

Please be reminded that the mumps virus spreads through saliva or mucus from the mouth, nose, or throat. An infected person can spread the virus by coughing, sneezing, kissing, or talking; sharing items, such as cups or eating utensils, with others; and touching objects or surfaces with unwashed hands that are then touched by others.

In an effort to maintain a healthy campus community, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to take the following precautions to avoid the mumps virus.

  • Make sure you are up-to-date on your MMR vaccine. If you are not sure if you received two doses of the MMR vaccine, get vaccinated. (Students: To check your immunization record online, go to Student Health Services. To receive an MMR vaccination, contact Student Health Services at (309) 438-8655

  • The majority of ISU students who have tested positive for mumps since Fall 2015, have received 2 MMR vaccines. Some students have asked about receiving a 3rd MMR vaccine. Currently enrolled students may schedule an appointment to receive a 3rd vaccine by calling (309) 438-2778 or online at Student Health Services website. The charge for the vaccine at SHS is $87, with an additional $11 front door fee. Both charges can be submitted to your insurance for possible reimbursement. The ISU Student Insurance plan will reimburse covered students for the vaccine.  It is important to note that a third MMR vaccine is not currently required by State of Illinois law or recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.

  • If you have had the mumps virus, you are immune meaning you would NOT need another does of the vaccine.
  • Wash your hands well and often with soap and water.
  • Do not share eating utensils and beverages with others.
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
  • Clean frequently touched surfaces with soap and water.
  • Avoid close contact with individuals who are sick.

Watch for mumps symptoms even if you are fully vaccinated. Initial symptoms include:

  • Achy muscles
  • Loss of appetite
  • Generalized discomfort
  • Headache
  • Low-grade fever

After a period of one to two days, symptoms may progress to:

  • Swelling in one or both of the Parotid glands (the salivary glands in front of the ears)
  • Pain / tenderness along the angle of the jaw
  • Swelling / pain in testicles in males (post-puberty) lower abdominal pain from swelling of ovaries in females who have reached puberty (< 20% of cases)

What to do if you believe you have mumps:

  • If there is a diagnosis of mumps, isolate from others for five (5) days from the onset of symptoms, which means no activities outside the home for five (5) days.
  • Cooperate with the McLean County Health Department if a disease investigation is conducted; comply with Illinois Department of Public Health Rules and Regulations for the Control of Communicable Disease.

Please help each other remain healthy by following these good health practices. Additional information about mumps can be found by visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/mumps. The McLean County Health Department is a great resource for information on mumps prevention which can be found at http://health.mcleancountyil.gov/.