Can a Person Get Mumps Twice?

Mumps is a contagious viral disease, commonly affecting children and adolescents. Many believe that once a person contracts mumps, they develop lifelong immunity. However, there have been recorded cases of individuals contracting mumps a second time. So, can a person get mumps twice? Let’s explore this topic in detail.

• 1. What Is Mumps?
• Common Symptoms of Mumps:
• 2. Can a Person Get Mumps Twice?
• 2.1. Immune Response to Mumps
• 2.2. Documented Cases of Mumps Reinfection
• 3. How to Prevent Mumps?
• 3.1. Get Vaccinated
• Recommended MMR Vaccination Schedule:
• 3.2. Additional Prevention Measures
• 4. When to See a Doctor?
• 5. Conclusion

1. What Is Mumps?

Mumps is an acute viral infection caused by the mumps virus, which belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family. It spreads through respiratory droplets from saliva when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

Common Symptoms of Mumps:

• Painful swelling of the salivary glands (especially the parotid glands)
• High fever (38-40°C / 100.4-104°F)
• Headache, fatigue
• Difficulty chewing, sore throat
• Loss of appetite

While mumps is generally mild, it can lead to serious complications such as orchitis (inflammation of the testicles in males), oophoritis (inflammation of the ovaries in females), meningitis, and pancreatitis.

2. Can a Person Get Mumps Twice?

2.1. Immune Response to Mumps

When the body is infected with the mumps virus for the first time, the immune system produces antibodies to fight the infection. In most cases, this provides lifelong protection against reinfection, which is why mumps is often considered a one-time illness.

However, in rare cases, a person can get mumps a second time due to:

• Weakened immunity: Some individuals do not develop strong enough immunity to prevent reinfection.
• Viral variations: Although mumps does not mutate as frequently as the flu, different virus strains could weaken immunity over time.
• Vaccine efficacy limitations: The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is highly effective but not 100% foolproof, meaning a small percentage of vaccinated individuals may still contract mumps.

2.2. Documented Cases of Mumps Reinfection

Although rare, some cases of mumps reinfection have been recorded, particularly in people who:

• Have weakened or compromised immune systems.
• Had a mild initial infection, leading to an insufficient immune response.
• Were infected with a different strain of the mumps virus, causing symptoms that were not severe enough to trigger full immunity.

3. How to Prevent Mumps?

3.1. Get Vaccinated

The best way to prevent mumps is by getting the MMR vaccine. This vaccine helps the body build strong immunity and significantly reduces the risk of infection.

Recommended MMR Vaccination Schedule:

• First dose: At 12-15 months old
• Second dose: At 4-6 years old

For unvaccinated adults or those unsure of their immunity, a booster dose can be taken to enhance protection.

3.2. Additional Prevention Measures

Besides vaccination, the following hygiene and safety practices help prevent mumps:

• Avoid close contact with infected individuals.
• Practice good hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap.
• Wear a mask when near people suspected of having mumps.
• Do not share personal items like cups, bowls, chopsticks, or toothbrushes.

4. When to See a Doctor?

If you or your child develop mumps-like symptoms, consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

• Swollen, painful testicles (orchitis) or ovarian pain (oophoritis).
• Severe headaches or neck stiffness (possible meningitis).
• Severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting (possible pancreatitis).

5. Conclusion

Although most people only get mumps once, rare cases of reinfection can occur. The best way to protect yourself is through vaccination and practicing proper hygiene. If you suspect you have mumps again, seek medical attention to get the right diagnosis and treatment.

We hope this article has helped you better understand the possibility of getting mumps twice and how to effectively prevent it!