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mumps

by catherine alderstein

exclusion period

exclude for 5 days after the onset of swelling

symptoms

  • painful swelling of the salivary glands (one or both sides of the face)
  • fever
  • headache
  • muscle aches
  • tiredness
  • pain when chewing or swallowing

when can your child return to childcare?

the child can return 5 days after the gland swelling began and when they are well enough for normal activities.

do siblings or contacts need to stay home?

unimmunised contacts should be excluded for 25 days after the onset of swelling in the last case. immunised contacts are not excluded.

treatment notes for parents

no specific treatment. rest, fluids, soft foods. paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain. mumps is a notifiable disease. vaccination is the best prevention (MMR vaccine at 12 months and 18 months).

view all exclusion periods

the complete illness-by-illness guide

this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service.