Dear Colleagues,

Please read carefully the following memo from Dr. Patricia Denning, Chief of Staff at Student Health Services. It is important for us to do whatever we can to limit the spread of this disease. Thanks.

David E. Shulenburger, Provost

Recently several KU students have been diagnosed with mumps, and others are being monitored for symptoms similar to those of mumps. Mumps is a viral illness spread the same way as the common cold is spread. Mumps is a highly communicable disease, but it rarely causes serious complications.

¢ Symptoms of mumps are fever plus swelling and discomfort in the jaw (salivary gland) area on one or both sides.

¢ To help prevent the spread of mumps, cover your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue when you sneeze or cough and wash your hands frequently and avoid sharing food or drink with others.

¢ Students who develop symptoms of mumps should contact Student Health Services (785.864.9507) or their health care provider IMMEDIATELY for an appointment.

¢ Faculty and staff who develop symptoms should IMMEDIATELY contact their health care provider.

¢ For students, faculty and staff who have seen a medical provider and who are likely to have mumps, the Lawrence Douglas County Health Department recommends that they isolate themselves from classes, work and other group gatherings for 9 days following the onset of symptoms.

¢ There is no specific treatment for mumps – much like the common cold. We recommend plenty of rest, fluids, healthy food and pain relievers as needed.

¢ If you are pregnant or immunocompromised, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

For additional information please visit the Student Health Services website at www.studenthealth.ku.edu, Nurse Help Line at 785.864.9583 or our central switchboard at 785.864.9500 (press 0 for the operator) Monday-Friday from 8:00am-8:00pm, Saturdays 8:00am-4:30pm and Sundays 12:30-4:30pm.

Patricia Denning, MD

Chief of Staff

Student Health Services

Watkins Memorial Health Center