Question 1

What is Mumps Infection?

Accepted Answer

Mumps infection is a contagious viral illness that primarily affects the salivary glands, causing painful swelling on one or both sides of the face. It is caused by the mumps virus, a paramyxovirus that spreads through respiratory droplets and saliva. The Mumps Virus Antibody (IgG) test is the most important test for confirming past infection and determining immunity status.

Question 2

What causes mumps infection?

Accepted Answer

Mumps infection is caused by the mumps virus, a paramyxovirus that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through direct contact with contaminated saliva. The virus enters through the nose or mouth, then travels to the salivary glands where it multiplies, causing the characteristic facial swelling. You can also catch mumps by sharing utensils, cups, or kissing someone who is infected, as the virus spreads easily 2-3 days before symptoms appear and up to 5 days after swelling starts.

Question 3

What is the best test for mumps infection?

Accepted Answer

The Mumps Virus Antibody (IgG) test is the most important test for mumps infection because it detects IgG antibodies that your immune system produces in response to the mumps virus. This test confirms whether you have had a past infection or have developed immunity from vaccination, which is crucial for determining your protection status. Elevated IgG levels indicate long-term immunity, helping healthcare providers assess whether you need vaccination or booster shots, especially during outbreak investigations or when verifying immunity for school, work, or travel requirements.

Question 4

When should I get tested for mumps infection?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have been exposed to someone with mumps, need to verify your immunity status for work or school requirements, or are experiencing symptoms like painful facial swelling, fever, and jaw pain. Testing is also important if you are part of an outbreak investigation, planning international travel to areas with mumps outbreaks, work in healthcare settings, or cannot confirm your vaccination history. Early testing helps determine whether you are protected or need vaccination to prevent infection.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of mumps infection?

Accepted Answer

Mumps symptoms typically include painful swelling of the salivary glands on one or both sides of your face, giving you a puffy-cheeked appearance. You might also experience fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and pain when chewing or swallowing. Symptoms usually appear 16-18 days after exposure to the virus, and some people have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, yet can still spread the virus to others.

Question 6

Who is at risk for mumps infection?

Accepted Answer

People who have not been vaccinated with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are at highest risk for mumps infection. Those living in close quarters like college dormitories, military barracks, or crowded households face increased exposure risk. Healthcare workers, international travelers visiting countries with ongoing mumps outbreaks, and individuals with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk. Even people who received the vaccine can occasionally get mumps, though their symptoms are usually much milder.

Question 7

What happens if mumps infection is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If mumps is left untreated, complications can develop including inflammation of the testicles (orchitis) in males, which can rarely lead to fertility problems, and inflammation of the ovaries (oophoritis) in females. Other serious complications include meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes), encephalitis (brain inflammation), hearing loss, and inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). Pregnant women who contract mumps during the first trimester have an increased risk of miscarriage, making prompt medical attention important.

Question 8

Can mumps infection be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mumps infection can be diagnosed with a blood test that detects antibodies your immune system creates in response to the virus. The Mumps Virus Antibody (IgG) test identifies IgG antibodies that indicate past infection or immunity from vaccination, while IgM antibodies suggest a recent or active infection. Blood tests are particularly useful for confirming immunity status when you cannot recall your vaccination history, during outbreak investigations, or when clinical symptoms alone are not conclusive for diagnosis.

Question 9

How is mumps infection treated?

Accepted Answer

Mumps infection is treated with supportive care to relieve symptoms, as there is no specific antiviral medication for the virus. Treatment includes getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids to stay hydrated, using over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and pain, and applying warm or cold compresses to swollen glands. You should isolate yourself for at least 5 days after swelling begins to prevent spreading the virus to others, eat soft foods that are easy to chew, and contact your doctor if you develop severe headaches, abdominal pain, or testicular swelling.

Question 10

How can I prevent mumps infection?

Accepted Answer

The best prevention for mumps is getting vaccinated with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, which is typically given in two doses during childhood but can be administered to adults who lack immunity. You can also prevent infection by practicing good hygiene such as washing your hands frequently, avoiding sharing drinks or utensils, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and staying away from people who are sick with mumps. If you are exposed to mumps and are not immune, contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss whether you need vaccination or additional precautions.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with mumps infection?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies that help manage mumps symptoms include drinking plenty of warm herbal teas like chamomile or ginger to soothe throat discomfort, eating soft foods such as yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes that require minimal chewing, and gargling with warm salt water to reduce mouth pain. You can apply warm or cold compresses to swollen glands for comfort, rest in a quiet, dimly lit room to ease headaches, and consume immune-supporting foods rich in vitamin C like citrus fruits and berries. However, these remedies complement medical care and do not replace the need for proper medical evaluation, especially if complications develop.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
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                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Mumps Infection Blood Test

What is Mumps Infection?

What causes mumps infection?

What is the best test for mumps infection?

When should I get tested for mumps infection?

References

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