Viral mumps: Increasing occurrences in the vaccinated population

Before the introduction of the vaccine, mumps was the most common salivary gland disease and was one of the most common infectious diseases in children globally. Following the introduction of the mumps vaccine in 1967, the disease was almost nonexistent in the United States and was only found to occur in nonvaccinated patients, and even then, it did not present in epidemic portions because of the extent of vaccination in the population at large. Beginning in the early 2000s, viral mumps began to present itself in vaccinated populations, and currently, outbreaks are continuing to increase in number. This article presents information on the various outbreaks, a review of the virus and the disease, including symptoms and comorbidities, and new recommendations for management. Dental practitioners should be aware of the increasing incidence and prevalence of this disease, be able to recognize it, and make appropriate referrals for management.