Toronto Public Health now confirms 64 cases of mumps in the city

The number just keeps growing.

Toronto Public Health has confirmed there are now 64 cases, which is more than double the amount reported on March 9.

According to their latest update, most of the cases are among 18-35 year olds, and five of the cases are related to elementary and high schools in Toronto, either among staff or students

While all of the cases related to Toronto school settings acquired the mumps from close contact with a known individual who already had the mumps and not from the school setting, Toronto Public Health said that broader community spread of the mumps is now occurring in the city.

Mumps is more than a funny word – it’s on the rise in Toronto. Learn more: https://t.co/arXKqHMuGh pic.twitter.com/oqOit5vGj8

— Toronto PublicHealth (@TOPublicHealth) March 24, 2017

Residents should ensure they are up-to-date with their vaccinations against the mumps.

The mumps virus is found in saliva and respiratory droplets, according to the City. It is spread from person to person through coughing, sneezing, and coming into contact with a person’s saliva by sharing drinks or utensils, food or water bottles, or by kissing.

A major factor contributing to outbreaks is being in a crowded environment, such as attending the same class, playing on the same sports team or living in a dormitory with a person who has the mumps.

Prior to the recent outbreak, mumps infection were rare in Toronto, with an average of five cases reported per year from 1997 to 2009.

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