Mumps confirmed in Whatcom County for first time in seven years
May 12, 2025, 6:31 PM
Whatcom County has reported its first confirmed case of mumps in seven years, according to health officials.
The patient, an adult, is recovering at home and did not require hospitalization. Officials say the individual may have been exposed to the virus while on a cruise ship overseas. There is no risk to the general public, authorities confirmed.
This is the first case of mumps in the state of Washington since 2023.
Mumps is a contagious viral infection that can cause puffy cheeks and a swollen, tender jaw, along with fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
Whatcom County health officials said the case serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination, “especially in light of recent measles cases in Washington State and across the nation.”
“This case highlights the continued importance of staying up to date on routine vaccinations like MMR,” said Dr. Meghan Lelonek, Whatcom County Co-Health Officer. “Vaccines help prevent serious illness and limit the spread in our community.”
Most people recover within two weeks, but severe complications can occur.
Those include “hearing loss and inflammation of the testicles, ovaries, breast tissue, pancreas, brain, and the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord,” according to health officials.
For more information about mumps, visit the Washington Department of Health website.
