The citizens of the capital city can face a mumps epidemic – a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the parotid glands, one of three pairs of salivary glands, located below and in front of the ears. On January 8 alone doctors of the Emergency Service have registered 9 cases of mumps. Doctor-coordinator of the Emergency Service, Ludmina Untura, told Info-Prim Neo that the age of patients infected with mumps is different, the illness striking both women and men that can become sterile as a consequence. In most cases mumps is transmitted trough cough or sneeze of an infected person, as well as by touching recently infected objects, such as napkins, handkerchiefs, glasses or dirty hands, family doctor Olga Severin told the agency. The incubation period is usually 16-18 days, although in some cases it can exceed 25 days. The symptoms develop when the virus multiplies and spreads over the brain and its membranes, in the salivary glands, pancreas, testicles, ovaries and other parts of the body. According to the cited source, the symptoms include swollen, sore salivary glands on one or both sides of the face, pain when chewing or swallowing, fever, weakness and fatigue, lack of appetite and vomiting. At the same time, nearly one third of those affected do not show any of these symptoms, especially children younger than 2 years. Speaking of the treatment, doctor Olga Severin said it is necessary to seek medical advice when the first symptoms occur. In uncomplicated cases patients are recommended home treatment that includes medicines that reduce fever and pain, and to lie in bed. In case of complications, patients must be hospitalised. The seriousness of the situation, although it was not made public, was confirmed by the fact that a special section of the Municipal Hospital No. 4 has been allocated for patients infected with mumps.