What to Know
- Mumps is highly contagious and is characterized by fever, headache and fatigue, among other symptoms
- The disease can't be treated and while the vaccine is not 100 percent effective, two doses of the vaccine are the best protection
- Officials say the affected students have been isolated
Another case of the mumps has been confirmed at the State University of New York at New Paltz, bringing the total number to 16 since the outbreak was reported in early October.
At least seven new cases have been reported in the last two weeks, according to the school. Eight members of the school's intercollegiate swim team, along with one athletics staff member, are among those who fell ill.
Mumps is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, headache and swelling of the salivary glands. Other symptoms include low-grade fever, fatigue, muscle aches and loss of appetite. After a person is exposed, symptoms usually appear 16 to 18 days after infection, but this period can range from 12-25 days after infection. Mumps can't be treated.
Two weeks ago, college health officials sent a letter to users of the school's athletic facilities cautioning them about possible infection. According to the school, the state Health Department has indicated there is minimal risk of transmission, but the school has been taking various precautions.
The affected students, who have been immunized against mumps, have been isolated for the recommended period of time. Twenty students who have not been immunized have been sent home until December.
Campus tours and general information sessions will proceed as scheduled, but residence halls home to affected students will be avoided for the time being. Overnight visits of student-athletes have been suspended until after Thanksgiving.
