Mumps (cont.)
Is the vaccine effective/does it work?
One dose of mumps vaccine will 'take' (be effective) in approximately 80% of
people vaccinated, but two doses of mumps vaccine will 'take' in approximately
90% of people. Therefore, two doses are better at preventing mumps than one
dose.
Where can I get the vaccine?
Most family and pediatric doctors keep vaccine in their clinics; and local
health departments usually have vaccine. If someone isn't sure where to get
vaccine, they can call the local or state health department.
What should I do if I don't know if I've been vaccinated?
Get vaccinated. The MMR vaccine is safe and there is no increased risk of
side effects if a person gets another vaccination.
If I had mumps as a child, can I get it again/should I get vaccinated?
Most people who have mumps will be protected (immune) from getting mumps
again. There is a small percent of people though, who could get reinfected with
mumps and have a milder illness. If mumps was not diagnosed by a physician, then
that person is not considered immune and vaccination is recommended.
If I was exposed to someone with mumps, what should I do?
Not everyone who is exposed to someone with mumps will get sick. If a person
has been vaccinated with two doses of mumps vaccine, it is very unlikely they
will get mumps. However, if a person hasn't been vaccinated, it is possible they
could get sick and they should watch for symptoms of mumps. Additionally, if a
person hasn't been vaccinated, this is a good time to get another dose of mumps
vaccine, and to make sure that everyone else in the house where they live is
also vaccinated. Mumps vaccine has not been shown to be effective in preventing
disease after exposure, but vaccination of exposed susceptible persons will
reduce the risk of disease from possible future exposures. If symptoms develop
(generally 16-18 days after exposure), the person should not go to school or
work for at least 5 days and should contact their medical provider.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Last Editorial Review: 2/21/2008
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