The DC Department of Health notified us that a suspected Mumps case was recently reported at American University. Mumps is a viral infection that causes fever, swelling or tenderness to one or more salivary glands, usually the parotid gland that is located along the jaw in front of the ear. The virus typically goes away on its own and patients fully recover.

With few exceptions, all students under the age of 26 at American University have received vaccinations against Mumps, so the chance of spreading to fellow students should be minimal. The DC Department of Health has contacted potentially affected students.

Please refer to the DC Department of Health Mumps Fact Sheet, which provides further guidance for minimizing any potential spread of infection. As with many infectious illnesses, frequent hand washing is an important way to prevent spread of the illness.

If you have any questions regarding Mumps, please do not hesitate to contact the Student Health Center at shc@american.edu