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Rapid response to a case of mumps: implications for preventing transmission at a medical research facility

Gabriela Salmón-Mulanovich1, Gregory Utz, Andrés G Lescano

  • 1Naval Medical Research Center Detachment, Peru.

Salud Publica De Mexico
|January 31, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Rapid response to a mumps outbreak in Peru prevented secondary cases. Prompt investigation and vaccination of healthcare workers protected both staff and non-human primates from mumps transmission.

Area of Science:

  • Occupational Health
  • Infectious Disease Epidemiology
  • Veterinary Public Health

Background:

  • A mumps outbreak occurred in a laboratory technician at a U.S. Naval Medical Research Center in Peru.
  • The potential for transmission to staff and the non-human primate (NHP) colony necessitated immediate intervention.

Observation:

  • 81% of 106 staff members had close contact with the infected individual.
  • Only 7% of exposed staff had received the MMR vaccine, and 18% of potentially susceptible individuals lacked immunity.
  • No secondary human cases were reported, and NHP colony access was restricted.

Findings:

  • A swift occupational health response, including interviews and IgG testing, identified susceptible individuals.
  • All identified susceptible staff were vaccinated with the MMR vaccine.
  • The implemented measures successfully prevented further mumps transmission within the facility.

Implications:

  • Demonstrates the critical importance of rapid and comprehensive occupational health strategies in controlling infectious disease outbreaks in research settings.
  • Highlights the need for robust vaccination policies and surveillance to protect both human and animal populations in high-risk environments.
  • Emphasizes the successful containment of mumps, safeguarding both personnel and valuable research animals.

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