False Mumps Scare Adressed by University
Following rumors circulating via a Whatsapp message earlier this week, IE University has put out an official informative note, in conjunction with the Madrid infirmary, about the suspected Mumps/Parotitis disease in question. At this time, there are no confirmed cases of the mumps on either campus, though the scare was based and spread mainly through Madrid. Please find the official university communication below:
INFORMATIVE NOTE
IE University would like to address the questions that have arisen regarding the possible cases of mumps at the Madrid campus. Please note that the cases have not yet been confirmed.
In the event of confirmation, we would strongly like to reassure everyone that these cases
could be cured with proper treatment.
Mumps/Parotitis is an acute infection caused mostly by a virus that inflames the salivary
glands (in front and under each ear).
It is necessary to know that mumps is contagious from the first signs of symptoms until 5 days later, so the affected person must remain at home, resting in order to avoid spreading the virus.
These infections occur among people who have not received a proper vaccination. The Spanish population is well vaccinated as long as people have followed the government protocols.
The symptoms produced are inflammation of the salivary glands, cough/runny nose,
headache and fever of 39-40º Celsius. Mumps must be diagnosed through a sanitary examination, so that anyone who feels they have any of these symptoms should go see the nurse or to your doctor to rule out possible infection.
IMPORTANT: IF YOU´VE ALREADY HAD MUMPS, RISK OF INFECTION IS VERY RARE.
Recommendations:
Check your vaccination records to verify that the series of vaccines is complete. If the vaccination process is not complete, vaccination measures must be taken.
People affected by mumps should see the doctor to be properly diagnosed.
People affected by mumps should not go to university or work for five days after the onset of clinical symptoms.
Washing hands regularly is recommended.
Attenuated vaccination of the mumps virus is recommended for those who have not been vaccinated or who have received only a single dose.
Vaccination after exposure is recommended to reduce the risk of possible future exposures to: Adults at high risk: people who travel frequently outside Spain, students from university institutions who have not received any vaccine.
Vaccination once the infection is contracted should be assessed.
Vaccination cannot be given to immunosuppressed patients, patients with advanced neoplasms, or to pregnant women.
With that we must all act responsibly, both the student population as well as the educational community as a whole, to avoid contagion. To do so it is strongly recommended washing your hands frequently and allowing for adequate ventilation of all spaces.
In the case of fever, inflammation or pain in the pre-auricular area (in front of the ear) or if you have any questions you should consult the doctor at any hospital or check in at the IEU infirmary in Madrid or Segovia:
MADRID: María Sáez González
MM 31bis, 3rd Floor
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, closed from 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Main Tel: +34 91 568 96 00 ext. 40551
SEGOVIA: Rocío Bermúdez Benito
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM,
Main Tel: +34 921415318 ext. 35118”