health
April 30, 2026
Mumps, the disease that has already left more than a thousand cases this year in Colombia
Mumps is a viral infection characterized by painful inflammation of the salivary glands, especially in the cheek and jaw area.
TL;DR
- Mumps is a viral infection causing painful inflammation of the salivary glands, particularly in the cheeks and jaw.
- Transmission occurs through saliva droplets from speaking, coughing, sneezing, and sharing utensils or drinks.
- Colombia has registered 1,285 cases of mumps in 2026, with the highest numbers in Bogotá (412) and Antioquia (175).
- Symptoms include high fever, general malaise, headache, constant tiredness, and painful swelling of the salivary glands.
- While it can affect any age, it is more common in unvaccinated children, but complications can occur in adolescents and adults, including testicular/ovarian inflammation and meningitis.
- Prevention is most effective through vaccination with the triple viral vaccine (measles, rubella, mumps).
- Other preventive measures include isolating during symptoms, covering coughs/sneezes, frequent handwashing, and not sharing personal items.