Harvard mumps outbreak reaches 41 confirmed cases

The current outbreak of mumps among Harvard University students, faculty and staff continues to grow, with 41 confirmed cases, according to Harvard University Health Services and the Cambridge Public Health Department.

“As of Tuesday, April 26, there were 41 confirmed cases of mumps in the Harvard community with 11 in self-isolation,” Paul J. Barreira, MD, director of Harvard University Health Services (HUHS), told Infectious Diseases in Children in an email statement. “[HUHS] has been actively working with groups from across the university to keep the Harvard community informed about best practices for preventing the spread of mumps, and continues to monitor the situation closely in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the Cambridge Public Health Department [CPHD].”

The number of mumps cases has been increasing, with the CPHD stating there were 30 cases on April 23. The first cases were confirmed by HUHS in February.

Previously, the CPHD reported that all of those infected with mumps were fully vaccinated against the virus with the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine. According to the press release, 99% of undergraduates and 98% of graduate students meet all Massachusetts health vaccine requirements.

Students have been advised to refrain from public activities for 5 days if they suspect they are infected, as the virus is contagious between 2 days before the onset of symptoms and 5 days after, according to the press release. Furthermore, Harvard is providing students who experience mumps symptoms with temporary single-occupancy rooms, to minimize their exposure to others.

Health officials also are advising unvaccinated students to get vaccinated with an initial dose of MMR, or a second dose if eligible.