EPIDEMIC PAROTITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Epidemic parotitis, commonly known as mumps, is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands located below and in front of the ears. The term "epidemic" refers to the characteristic rapid spread of the infection within a population, especially in crowded environments like schools or college campuses.
Mumps is caused by the mumps virus, which is transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. The virus can also spread through direct contact with saliva or surface contamination. After an incubation period of around 16 to 18 days, symptoms of mumps typically begin to manifest.
Common signs and symptoms of epidemic parotitis include pain and swelling in one or both of the parotid glands, making the cheeks appear swollen and puffy. Other associated symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and difficulty swallowing. In rare cases, mumps can lead to complications such as meningitis, inflammation of the testicles or ovaries, deafness, or pancreatitis.
Prevention against epidemic parotitis is primarily achieved through immunization with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, administered in two doses during childhood. This vaccine has significantly contributed to the decline in mumps cases worldwide. Treatment for mumps primarily focuses on relieving symptoms, such as pain and fever, through supportive care such as rest, hydration, and pain relievers. Isolation measures to prevent spread are also crucial, in addition to measures like frequent handwashing and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Common Misspellings for EPIDEMIC PAROTITIS
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Etymology of EPIDEMIC PAROTITIS
The term "epidemic parotitis" is composed of two main components: "epidemic" and "parotitis".
- Epidemic: The word "epidemic" comes from the Greek word "epidḗmios", which means "prevalent among the people". It is derived from "epi" meaning "upon" and "demos" meaning "people" or "population".
- Parotitis: "Parotitis" refers to the inflammation of the parotid glands, which are the largest salivary glands located on either side of the face, near the ears. The term "parotitis" comes from the Greek word "parōtid-, parōtís", which specifically means "swelling near the ear".
