BLACKSBURG, Va., Oct. 5, 2006 – The Schiffert Health Center is reporting that a Virginia Tech student has been diagnosed with a probable case of mumps. A confirmed diagnosis is expected next week pending the completion of laboratory tests.
In accordance with state health department requirements, students enrolled in classes with this student will be notified of possible exposure to mumps, as will facutly and staff who may have had contact. This will be accomplished by e-mail. All full-time Virginia Tech students are required to be immunized for the mumps, and members of the university community are strongly encouraged to review their own medical histories to ensure immunizations are complete. Experts believe that attempts to reach all members of a community and to assure vaccinations reduce the spread of the illness and minimize the risk of contracting it.
In addition to vaccination, other prevention measures for reducing transmission include frequent hand washing, using alcohol-based hand sanitizers (such as Purell), covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding the sharing of glasses and utensils. You are encouraged to seek medical attention as soon as you experience any symptoms.
Schiffert Health Center has established a hotline (540-231-5696) to respond to questions related to mumps. Additional information can be found on the Schiffert Health Center website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.