The Mumps virus is a highly contagious disease that causes
swelling in the parotid gland which is the largest of the
salivary glands. This virus can actually be carried in
approximately 20% of asymptomatic individuals and passed onto
others unknowingly through droplets in the air resulting from a
sneeze or cough by the infected individual. These airborne
pathogens can enter the innocent victim’s body through the eyes,
nose, or mouth. The Mumps virus can also be passed through
direct contact to others through saliva. Eating or drinking from
glasses or utensils used by the infected carrier can easily
infect unsuspecting victims. The Mumps virus is not evident in
the infected person for at least six days when symptoms begin to
erupt. This delay in obvious symptoms is dangerous because those
infected with the Mumps virus can unknowingly pass this disease
to several others before they are aware of their acquisition of
the virus. The Mumps virus symptoms may include parotid
inflammation, fever, vomiting, headache,