Paediatrics, by video or in person
Mumps
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Mumps
- Swelling and pain below the ears, on one or both sides
- Pain when chewing or swallowing, especially sour foods
- Fever and headache
- Tiredness and poor appetite
- In older boys and men: a painful, swollen testicle
Published Mezo prices. Each links to what the price covers.
Mumps is a viral infection that causes painful swelling of the salivary glands in front of and below the ears, on one or both sides, giving a puffy-cheeked look. It spreads through coughs, sneezes and shared cups. Fever, headache and tiredness usually come first, and the swelling lasts about a week. Most children recover fully with rest and pain relief. Less often it affects the testicles in boys after puberty, the brain coverings, the pancreas or hearing. The MMR vaccine protects against it.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Swelling and pain below the ears, on one or both sides
- Pain when chewing or swallowing, especially sour foods
- Fever and headache
- Tiredness and poor appetite
- In older boys and men: a painful, swollen testicle
- Occasionally: tummy pain or reduced hearing
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you think your child has mumps, so the illness can be confirmed and others warned, and if a boy has a painful or swollen testicle, or a child has tummy pain or seems not to hear well. Go to a hospital now for a severe headache with a stiff neck, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, a fit, or severe tummy pain.
Treatment options
- Rest and plenty of fluids
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and fever
- Soft foods that need little chewing, and avoiding sour drinks
- A warm or cool compress on the swollen glands
- Keeping the child away from school for five days after the swelling starts
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Is mumps dangerous?
Usually not: most children recover in about a week. Complications such as swelling of a testicle, meningitis or hearing loss are uncommon but are why a doctor should confirm the illness and know the warning signs.
Does the vaccine prevent mumps?
Yes. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella. Ask a doctor whether your child is up to date, as it is not given in every routine schedule in Nigeria.
How long is my child infectious?
From a few days before the swelling starts until about five days after. Keep your child home for those five days and avoid sharing cups and spoons.
Need Help?
A children's doctor on a video call, who tells you whether your child needs to be examined in person.
See a paediatrician by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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