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Molecular Diagnosis of Mumps - Mitigation of Resurgence, A South Indian Report
N Ashokumar1, K Jaya Swathi2, Senthilraja Ramalingam2
1Molecular Biologist, Department of Molecular Biology, Microbiological Laboratory, Deralakatta, Mangalore, India.
Summary:
Mumps infection, a public health problem caused by the mumps virus, presents with uni/bilateral swelling of the parotid gland(s) with meningitis and orchitis as complications. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted successful mumps vaccination programs. A prospective study was conducted from January to March 2024 to diagnose suspected mumps patients attending hospitals in southern India. Samples analyzed for mumps using fast-track diagnostics reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction kits were categorized as per WHO clinical case definition. Of 200 samples screened, 26 (13%) were positive - 10 blood, 11 cerebrospinal fluid, and 5 Buccal swab samples. In developing countries like India, laboratories with advanced testing methodologies reduce mumps-related morbidity.
Insights
Mumps virus infections, a public health concern, were diagnosed in 13% of suspected cases in India using advanced PCR testing. This highlights the need for accessible diagnostic methods to reduce mumps complications.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Mumps virus infection is a significant public health issue, characterized by parotid gland swelling and potential complications like meningitis and orchitis.
- The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted global mumps vaccination efforts, potentially leading to increased disease incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of mumps virus infection in suspected cases in southern India.
- To evaluate the utility of advanced diagnostic techniques for mumps detection in a resource-limited setting.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study was conducted from January to March 2024.
- Samples from 200 suspected mumps patients were analyzed using fast-track diagnostics reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) kits.
- Cases were classified according to the World Health Organization (WHO) clinical case definition.
Main Results:
- Out of 200 samples screened, 26 (13%) tested positive for mumps virus.
- Positive results were obtained from blood (10), cerebrospinal fluid (11), and buccal swabs (5).
Conclusions:
- Advanced diagnostic methods like RT-PCR are crucial for accurately identifying mumps virus infections.
- Implementing robust laboratory testing in developing countries like India can significantly reduce mumps-related morbidity and mortality.
