Mumps in the region: Backpackers asked to check immunisation status
A case of suspected mumps has been notified to the Nelson Marlborough Public Health Service.
People who stayed at the Blue Moon Lodge, Havelock, on 25 or 26 December, or the Inlet Backpackers, Collingwood, on 27 December, may have been exposed to mumps.
Dr Simon Baker, locum Medical Officer of Health, says that early symptoms of mumps include fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness and loss of appetite. Later, the salivary glands on one or both sides of the face, cheeks or jaw may become swollen and sore.
“Should you develop any of these symptoms in the next two to four weeks please isolate yourself, and contact a doctor, who will probably call you in to have a swab taken, and give you further advice.” “Immunisation is the best way to protect yourself from mumps, and we recommend you check your child health book or contact your doctor to make sure you have received two doses of the MMR vaccine, and are therefore fully immunised,” Dr Baker says.
The person with mumps has now been isolated, and people do not need to cancel bookings or alter their holiday plans, but remain alert to the symptoms.
More information about mumps, how the disease spreads, and mumps vaccination is available here.