Mumps outbreak hits DkIT campus
An outbreak of mumps at DkIT has led to the college authorities warning students to talk to their GP or student health advisor if they think they haven't been vaccinated against the disease.
There have been several confirmed cases of mumps among students at the college, in line with reports from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) which says that mumps has been on the increase since the start of 2008.
Students who have not been vaccinated against the disease are being advised to consult their GP or student health advisor as young people under 25 years are most at risk of contacting the disease.
Patients with mumps may start with a fever while the hallmark sign is swelling to the glands at the side of the jaw, making talking and swallowing painful.
Complications can be encephalitis and meningitis, deafness, swelling of the testicles in teenage boys and men, and an increased risk of miscarriage in early pregnancy.
Students who develop mumps are being warned to stay at home for ten days to prevent the spread of the disease to others.
A vaccination programme is being put in place at DkIT for those who haven't been previously vaccinated against mumps.
- Margaret Roddy
