The state of Kerala is currently experiencing an outbreak of mumps, a contagious viral infection. This outbreak has significantly impacted the pediatric population, with over 10,000 children affected within a span of less than 70 days.
Increase in Cases
- Data from the health department indicates a notable increase in the number of children seeking treatment for mumps.
- The average daily number of children seeking treatment has surged from 50 in January to 300 in March, highlighting the rapid spread of the disease.
Regional Impact
- The Indian Academy of Paediatrics reports that one in 20 children visiting outpatient clinics in Kerala is diagnosed with mumps.
- Certain districts, particularly Malappuram and its neighboring areas, have observed a higher incidence of mumps cases.
Disease Presentation
- Children affected by mumps typically present with mild fever, headache, puffy cheeks, and swollen jaws.
Viral Variant and Recovery
- Paediatricians note that the virus responsible for the outbreak appears to be a mild variant.
- Complications are reported to be 50% lower, and most patients recover within nine days of symptom onset.
Factors Contributing to the Outbreak
- Health experts attribute the outbreak to a lack of immunity within the population.
- The mumps vaccine is not included in the standard vaccination schedule of the health department.
Vaccination Recommendations
- Private hospitals recommend two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.
- The government vaccination program primarily covers other vaccines, leading to increased vaccination uptake in government facilities.
Long-Term Implications and Concerns
- Despite the mild severity of the current outbreak, experts express concern about potential long-term implications.
- Mumps can lead to sterility among males and encephalitis, prompting calls for further study into its prevalence.
Vaccine Effectiveness and Cost Considerations
- Dr. Sheeja Sugunan highlights that the mumps vaccine is approximately 70% effective.
- Cost considerations and the relatively lower efficacy rate contribute to the decision to exclude the mumps vaccine from the national vaccination schedule.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What viral infection is currently experiencing an outbreak in Kerala?
- A) Influenza
- B) Mumps
- C) Measles
- D) Rubella
- Answer: B) Mumps
- What is the average daily increase in children seeking treatment for mumps from January to March?
- A) 100
- B) 150
- C) 200
- D) 250
- Answer: C) 200
- Which region in Kerala is noted for having the highest number of mumps cases?
- A) Thiruvananthapuram
- B) Kochi
- C) Malappuram and neighboring districts
- D) Kozhikode
- Answer: C) Malappuram and neighboring districts
- What are the marked symptoms of mumps in affected children?
- A) Rash and joint pain
- B) Cough and sore throat
- C) Puffy cheeks and swollen jaws
- D) Diarrhea and vomiting
- Answer: C) Puffy cheeks and swollen jaws
- Why is the mumps vaccine not included in the national vaccination schedule according to Dr. Sheeja Sugunan?
- A) It has a low efficacy rate of 50%.
- B) The vaccine is too costly.
- C) It is not necessary due to low prevalence.
- D) The vaccine is only 70% effective, and there are cost considerations.
- Answer: D) The vaccine is only 70% effective, and there are cost considerations.