The Hawaii State Department of Health increased the total number of mumps cases identified in the state to 65 Tuesday, marking a seven case increase from its last update issued May 25.
State health officials have been investigating clusters of mumps infections statewide since March. Six of the new cases were identified in residents of Oahu, Hawaii. One additional case was identified in an individual living in Kauai, Hawaii. In addition to encouraging families to comply with immunization recommendations, the health department is advising those with suspected cases to self-isolate for nine days after the onset of swollen jaw and for those who are not vaccinated who have been exposed to the virus to refrain from traveling, attending work or school from day 12 to day 25 after exposure.
The mumps is often spread through sneezing, coughing and the sharing of common items like cups that come into contact with saliva.
For information on mumps prevention and control in healthcare settings, click here.
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