To the Temple University community:

I would like to provide the latest health information. At present, Temple University has 15 confirmed cases of mumps and 59 probable cases.

Twice next week, Temple Student and Employee Health Services (SHS) will offer walk-in clinics at which the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine will be available at no charge. No appointments are necessary. Upon presentation of a current OWLcard, all Temple students, faculty and staff are eligible for the MMR vaccine.

The clinics—offered in conjunction with the Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH)—will be held in Mitten Hall’s Great Court Wednesday, March 27, and Friday, March 29, from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 

Self-isolation after the onset of symptoms remains one of the most critical steps a symptomatic individual can take toward recovery and limiting the spread of mumps. The university continues to recommend this measure for symptomatic students, faculty and staff.

It is important for community members to be aware of the symptoms and take steps to keep you and others healthy.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Mumps is a highly infectious disease passed through saliva and respiratory secretions. While the incubation period is 12 to 25 days, symptoms often appear 16 to 18 days after exposure.

The symptoms for the mumps are similar to influenza (the flu) and often include tender swollen glands below the ear and along the jawline on one or both sides of the face and neck, headache, fever and cold-like symptoms. People with mumps are considered infectious from two days before swelling begins through five days after the start of swelling.

If you are experiencing symptoms or have questions, please contact StudentHealth@temple.edu or EmployeeHealth@temple.edu.

WHAT YOU CAN DO
Management for mumps is similar to that of chicken pox. There is no treatment, only relief of symptoms. Take Motrin or Tylenol for fever and swelling, drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. One of the most important steps you can take if you experience symptoms is to self-isolate, avoid travel and limit contact with others for five days from the onset of symptoms. For healthy people, there is very little risk of serious complications from the mumps. 

If you have had close contact with someone symptomatic with the mumps and have never received the MMR vaccine, the recommendation is to receive the full two-dose MMR series.

If you have had close contact with someone symptomatic with the mumps and have previously received the MMR vaccine, the recommendation is to receive a third booster dose of the vaccine. The third booster dose is not recommended unless you have had close contact with a symptomatic person. 

If you are immunocompromised or pregnant, please contact your doctor immediately.

For more information, students (215-204-7500) and employees (215-204-2679) are encouraged to call Temple Student and Employee Health Services.

The following precautions against mumps and flu are advised.

• Cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing; use your upper sleeve to cover your cough, not your hand.
• Wash hands frequently and efficiently. When unable to wash with soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid sharing food and drinks or participating in other activities that may result in saliva exposure.
• Stay home from school or work when you are sick to rest and limit the spread of illness to others. 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
For additional information, please review the following resources.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mumps: Questions and Answers
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mumps Information

As mentioned, we have been in regular contact with PDPH and will share additional updates as necessary. 

The university continues to update and educate the campus community; treat anyone who presents symptoms; and identify individuals who have been in close contact with symptomatic individuals and recommend they receive the MMR vaccine.

Additionally, the university has taken steps toward updating its immunization policy for prematriculation to require the following:

• two doses—Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine;
• two doses—Varicella (chicken pox) vaccine; and
• one dose within 10 years—Tetanus, Diptheria, Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine.

If you have questions or are experiencing symptoms, you are encouraged to contact Temple University Student Health Services at StudentHealth@temple.edu or Employee Health Services at EmployeeHealth@temple.edu. 

Mark Denys, MHA, BS, RN
Director Student and Employee Health Services