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Mumps Outbreaks at Four Universities - Indiana, 2016
MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report
|July 27, 2018
Summary
Indiana experienced mumps outbreaks at four universities. A new laboratory testing protocol improved case detection, highlighting the need for standardized vaccination documentation and updated exclusion policies during outbreaks.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology and Public Health
- Infectious Disease Outbreak Investigation
Background:
- Mumps outbreaks occurred at four Indiana universities between February and April 2016.
- Limited epidemiologic links were found among the geographically proximate outbreaks.
- Challenges were encountered in verifying vaccination status and implementing exclusion policies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate mumps outbreaks at four Indiana universities.
- To assess the effectiveness of control measures, including a new laboratory testing protocol.
- To identify challenges in managing outbreaks in highly vaccinated populations.
Main Methods:
- Investigation of outbreaks by the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) and local health departments.
- Development and dissemination of a mumps testing protocol, including specimen submission preauthorization.
- Declaration of outbreak conclusion after two incubation periods without new cases.
Main Results:
- A total of 281 confirmed and probable mumps cases were identified.
- 76.9% of cases had documentation of presumptive evidence of immunity.
- The laboratory testing protocol improved case detection and the percentage of positive specimens.
Conclusions:
- Standardized vaccination documentation and outbreak-specific laboratory guidance are crucial for managing mumps outbreaks in highly vaccinated settings.
- Evaluation of exclusion policies may be necessary.
- A 2018 recommendation advises a third measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine dose for at-risk individuals during outbreaks.
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