More mumps cases confirmed in Toronto
Posted July 27, 2011 8:18 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
The city’s public health department has discovered five more cases of mumps after an outbreak at a financial district restaurant.
Toronto Public Health has confirmed a total of nine cases since last week and says it suspects three other people have been infected. All were customers or employees of Ki Restaurant at Bay and Wellington streets.
Those who were at the restaurant between July 7 and 22 should watch for symptoms, which could show up anytime up until Aug. 17. Swelling and pain in the cheeks and jaw, fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue and loss of appetite may mean mumps are present.
People born before 1970 are generally considered to be immune. For those born after, two doses of mumps are needed. Those born in Ontario between 1970 and 1992 likely got only one dose and should get another.
Most people who get mumps recover within two weeks. Serious side-effects, including swelling of the brain and meningitis, are rare.
Mumps is spread through saliva when people kiss or share drinks, utensils and cigarettes. Coughing and sneezing can also infect others.
Though uncommon, Toronto has had about 16 reported mumps cases a year for the past five years.
For more information call Toronto Public Health at 416-392-1250 or click here.
