You are here

Important information regarding mumps in Louisiana

Top Stories

Student Health Services recommends vigilance to combat COVID-19

As confirmed cases of COVID-19 continue to increase statewide and locally, it is likely that each of us will learn t

Read More ➝

Flu Vaccine Clinic & Health Fair

The Louisiana Department of Health is offering Flu Vaccine Clinics and Health Fairs.

Read More ➝

Meningococcal Meningitis Update

If your shots are up to date for admission to UL Lafayette, then there are two possibilities: either you’ve already

Read More ➝

The Louisiana Department of Health reports that cases of mumps are beginning to appear in Louisiana. As of Wednesday March 15, there were 12 cases of mumps reported by the LDH Office of Public Health.
 
The first cluster of cases has been identified at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. LSU is taking precautions to prevent the spread among students and faculty.
 
The Louisiana Department of Health has shared health alerts and educational materials to remind health care providers, schools and universities about the signs and symptoms of mumps.

MMR Vaccine

Vaccination is the best way to prevent the disease. Students should check their immunization records. Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) are recommended for children four years and older.

If you are not sure if you received the MMR vaccine, or if you do not know the number of doses you received, you should get vaccinated. It is safe to receive another vaccine if you are unsure of your vaccination history. There is no evidence that adverse (unfavorable) reactions are increased when MMR is given to a person who is already immune to one or more of the components of the vaccine. Contact your health care provider for further information.

Receive the Vaccine

You can receive a mumps vaccination from:

  • your private health care provider,
  • most community pharmacies, or
  • a public health unit, if you are uninsured.

Review Your Vaccination Records

If you need official copies of vaccination records, or if you need to update your personal records, there are several places you can look.

  • Ask parents or other caregivers if they have records or your childhood immunizations.
  • Try looking though baby books or other saved documents from your childhood.
  • Check with your high school or college health services for dates of any immunizations. Keep in mind that generally records are kept for one to two years after students leave the school system.
  • Check with previous employers (including the military) that may have required immunizations.
  • Check with your doctor or public health clinic. Keep in mind that vaccination records are maintained at doctors' offices for a limited number of years.
  • Contact your state's health department. Some states have registers (Immunization Information Systems) that include adult vaccines. LINKS is the official immunization registry for Louisiana.

Avoid the Spread of Infection

In addition to being up to date on immunizations, the Louisiana Department of Health offers these reminders to avoid the spread of infection:

  • Do not share drinks, utensils, or food.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
  • Clean surfaces regularly that are frequently touched (such as toys, doorknobs, tables, counters) with soap and water or with a cleaning wipe.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
  • If you have symptoms, stay at home for five days after symptoms begin; avoid school, work or large group settings.

Additional Resources

Visit the Louisiana Department of Health's website for more information regarding mumps including frequently asked questions.

Read a letter from the Louisiana Department of Health State Health Officer Jimmy Guidry, M.D.

SHARE THIS |