MSU PSA: Don't fraternize with UM students, they'll give you the mumps

MSU sent an email to their students this morning warning that socializing with UofM students may result in you getting the mumps. Granted, it's not like this was out of the blue since 3 UofM students came down with mumps last week as reported in the news. But still seems like a #HateWeek burn to me. I couldn't stop laughing in all honesty.

Dear Student,
 
At least 3 cases of mumps have been confirmed at the University of Michigan within the last two weeks.  Mumps virus is known for causing puffy cheeks and a swollen jaw.  The virus can be transmitted by an infected person’s coughing or sneezing droplets of contaminated saliva. The virus can also be transmitted by direct contact with saliva (sharing a cup, straw, or toothbrush, kissing). Mumps can be contagious several days prior to symptoms of swelling appear, and a person remains contagious until five days after these symptoms begin.  Rarely people may experience severe complications.
 
With the MSU-UM football game this weekend and regular socializing between MSU and UM students, it is important that all MSU students be aware of how to help prevent mumps.
 

1. Check your immunization record (your parents or home doctor should have it). If you have not received two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, you should call your health care provider to evaluate whether to receive another MMR vaccine.
2. Practice preventive measures such as washing hands with soap and water, cover coughs and sneezes and avoid direct contact with someone else’s saliva.
3. Stay home if you are sick in order to prevent infecting others.
4. If you have had close contact with someone with confirmed mumps, or if there is any reason to believe you could be at higher risk of infection, talk with your healthcare provider.

 
Students with questions or who develop symptoms may call the Olin 24-Hour Phone Information Nurse line at 517-353-5557.
 
For additional information about Mumps visithttps://www.cdc.gov/mumps/ and for information about the MMR vaccine, visit https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/mmr/public/.
 
And if you haven’t already done so, please complete your immunization self-report at https://immunize.msu.edu.
 
David P. Weismantel, MD, MS
University Physician & Executive Director of Student Health and Wellness