Manitoba public health officials report that cases of mumps continue to be reported in Manitoba this year and since September there have been 61 cases. That number is more than ten times the average reported cases of four or five per year according to officials.

The majority of cases are people aged 17 to 29 and most are connected to University of Manitoba, University of Winnipeg and Université de St. Boniface. However there are other cases that have no connection to the education facilities.

Health officials are concerned with the holiday season approaching, students may be attending public events or going home to other communities and, if infected, could spread the virus to people throughout the province or elsewhere.

 Public health officials say they investigate each case of mumps and identify the people they may have been contact with and the locations.  Where appropriate, people will be offered immunization.  Individuals with mumps will be asked to restrict their contact with others to reduce the possible spread of mumps.  Public health officials will continue to monitor the situation in Manitoba and provide updated information as necessary.

The mumps virus can be passed on to others when an infected person passes fluids from the mouth and nose to another by sharing drinks, food or cigarettes; by kissing; by coughing or sneezing within a few feet of another person.

To reduce the spread of mumps, people should:

• wash their hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available,
• avoid sharing drinking glasses or eating utensils,
• cover coughs and sneezes with the forearm or a tissue, and
• stay home when sick.

 If you believe you may have the mumps or have been in close contact with someone who has ben diagnosed with the mumps you should phone your doctor or Health Links at 204-788-8200 or toll free at 1-888-315-9257 for more information.

-News4 Staff-