MUMPS

Known as: Mumps

About: Comes from the Paramyxovirus, a member of the Rubulavirus family

Microscope: Not perfect, sphere shapes with irregular edges 

What Can It Do: Mumps, the cheeky virus, can sneak into your body and cause quite a bit of mischief. It's caused by a virus just like Rubella, but it has its own special way of making you feel unwell. It can take more than 2 weeks before you know you have caught mumps!. When mumps comes to visit, it often starts with swollen cheeks and a sore throat, making it look like you've got a mouthful of marbles. You might also feel tired and have a little fever, just like when you need a rest after a fun day of play.

Mumps usually like to play tricks on kids, but grown-ups can catch it too. It can be a bit uncomfortable, but it usually doesn't last too long. Sometimes, mumps can be extra naughty and cause other problems like swelling in other parts of your body, such as your tummy or even your brain. But don't worry, doctors can help with that.

Help: We have superhero protection against mumps, and it's called the MMR vaccine. Just like a shield, this vaccine keeps you safe from mumps, as well as measles and rubella. Most kids get their first MMR shot when they're about 1 year old, with a second shot around 4 to 6 years old. This superhero shield helps you stay healthy and strong!

If you do get mumps, your parents and doctors are ready to help. They'll make sure you're comfy and give you lots of love, soothing drinks, and soft foods like yummy jelly, to help you feel better while you recover from your mumps adventure.

Infectious Rating: Mumps isn't as catchy as some other germs, but it can still play tricks on friends if you're not careful. It spreads when someone with mumps talks, sneezes, or coughs, and tiny mumps germs go flying into the air. So, if you have mumps, it's like a game of hide and seek, and you should stay home until you're all better to keep your friends safe.

I Feel Sick:  When you have mumps, your cheeks get all puffy like a chipmunk, and sore, and you might feel tired with a bit of fever and a sore throat. It's like your cheeks are telling secrets, but it's no fun secret at all. Tell your parents, and they'll take good care of you.

Skin Symptoms:  Mumps doesn't give you a colorful rash like Rubella or the measles. Instead, it gives you puffy cheeks, like a squirrel with a mouthful of nuts, and it might make other parts of your body swell too. It's like a little surprise from the mumps.

Geography + Statistics: Mumps has been around for a while, but thanks to superhero doctors and vaccines, it doesn't visit as often as it used to. Sometimes there are a few mumps tricks here and there, but shots when you are still a little baby, help keep it away. By getting your shots and being a careful superhero, you can help protect yourself and your friends from mumps mischief.