An outbreak of mumps has been diagnosed among James Madison University student athletes. The highly contagious disease is passed from person to person by “saliva, nasal secretions, and close personal contact,” according to EMU Health Services Director Irene Kniss. Kniss sent out an email on Feb. 7 detailing the symptoms of mumps and vaccination information.

According to Kniss’ email, the symptoms of mumps manifest approximately two weeks after exposure to the virus and include fatigue, body aches, headaches, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, swelling of salivary glands, and pain while chewing or swallowing.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice recommends an additional Mumps, Measles, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine for those that have received the recommended two doses before the age of six in the event of a mumps outbreak. Students can make an appointment with EMU Health Services to receive this vaccination.

Students should call the Health Services Nurse Call Line at (540) 432-4302 if they have any questions or develop any symptoms. Students should also avoid contact with persons exposed to mumps carriers.

If a student has not received an MMR vaccination, they may be required to leave EMU in the event of an outbreak on campus.