Mumps Epidemic in Navi Mumbai in 2023-24: Lessons for the Health Management System.

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Mumps outbreaks pose a significant public health challenge, particularly in densely populated areas.
• The Navi Mumbai region experienced a notable mumps epidemic during 2023-24.
• Understanding disease morbidity and identifying effective preventive strategies are crucial for outbreak control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the morbidity associated with the mumps epidemic in Navi Mumbai.
• To identify and recommend preventive strategies to mitigate future mumps outbreaks.

Main Methods:

• An outbreak investigation was conducted by pediatricians in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
• The investigation period spanned from December 2023 to February 2024.
• A clinical case definition for mumps was established based on acute onset of parotid or salivary gland swelling.

Main Results:

• A total of 217 mumps cases were documented during the investigation.
• A significant majority, 197 cases (90.78%), had no prior mumps vaccination.
• Many children received Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine instead of Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine, missing an opportunity for mumps immunization.

Conclusions:

• The study underscores the critical need for a dedicated Public Health Division within the government.
• Effective monitoring of contagious diseases is essential for timely detection and control of community outbreaks.
• Integrating mumps vaccine into national immunization programs should be considered to prevent such epidemics.