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Simon Willison’s Weblog

Mumps!

The camera man wore a protective scarf.

I’ve become yet another statistic in the Bath Mumps epidemic of 2004. I’m quarantined until next Monday, and this afternoon we had a camera crew from ITV West come round to film some doom-and-gloom footage warning students to get vaccinated. Amusingly the camera man hadn’t had Mumps and took suitable precautions to avoid infection. I’m told that the piece will go out on ITV news for the south west at 6pm this evening.

Posted 15th November 2004 at 2:02 pm

This is Mumps! by Simon Willison, posted on 15th November 2004.

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456 comments

  1. I didn't think anyone got the mumps anymore. Isn't there a vaccine? I suppose that is a bit besides the point, so, GET WELL!

    seth - 15th November 2004 14:15 - #

  2. There is a vaccine and all of us that have come down with the mumps in the house had it as kids -- so we're really not sure what's going on! It's not fun in any case tho

    Meri - 15th November 2004 14:26 - #

  3. bad news fella! :(

    ed - 15th November 2004 15:27 - #

  4. Ick! Hope you get better soon.

    Jacob - 15th November 2004 16:38 - #

  5. Well, I am not surprised this has happened with all the commotion regarding vaccination in the UK over the last few years.

    Robert Wellock - 15th November 2004 17:31 - #

  6. Get well soon! I hope you at least have an Internet connection while quarantined.

    Michael Moncur - 15th November 2004 18:37 - #

  7. I believe the vaccines 'wear off' as you get older, getting the actual disease gives you immunity for life, vaccination doesn't necessarily which is why boosters/second doses are offered. I managed to catch all these diseases (measles, mumps, rubella, chicken pox, whooping cough ...) as a kid so the mumps infected hold no fear for me ;) Get well soon!

    Rachel - 15th November 2004 19:45 - #

  8. Quarantination must be the life! Being locked up, not being bothered by anyone, having all responsibility shirked off with a legitimate excuse, with nothing to do but sit on the computer all day. Can I have some mumps please?

    Will Chatham - 15th November 2004 20:41 - #

  9. just hope your "equipment" hasn't been affected, mate...

    patrick h. lauke - 15th November 2004 20:55 - #

  10. Even though having mumps is meant to immunise you for life, it may not do. I know someone who knows an ENT (ear nose and throat) specialist, and he swears one of his kids had mumps twice... and if he doesn't know, who does?

    Chris - 15th November 2004 21:20 - #

  11. I hope you get well soon Simon. I had chicken pox twice - once as a child and once as an adult - which was not fun!

    mmj - 16th November 2004 01:46 - #

  12. I hope you get well soon Simon. I had chicken pox twice - once as a child and once as an adult - which was not fun!

    mmj - 16th November 2004 01:47 - #

  13. Hope you feel better - I've never had mumps myself, though I did get chicken pox at 23!

    Yvonne Adams - 16th November 2004 06:28 - #

  14. Isn't mumps the one where your *cough* testicles swell to the size of a grapefruit? :-D

    Andy - 16th November 2004 10:58 - #

  15. I had thought that 'Bath Mumps' was a strain I hadn't heard of ... (Get well soon)

    Aaron Brady - 16th November 2004 12:05 - #

  16. pah. I'm just upset that I don't have mumps so they wouldn't interview me! I even offered to act for them. Damn their journalists' ethics...

    h

    hussy - 17th November 2004 00:51 - #

  17. I'm sure it's fairly common to have the Mumps more than once, hell I got the Chicken Pox 3 times as a child.

    Allyn Edwards - 17th November 2004 08:44 - #

  18. Hi Simon, Sorry to learn of this situation. Hope you're back on your feet soon. All the best from Lawrence.

    Ralph Gage - 19th November 2004 17:23 - #

  19. Hey i've got Mumps too just now! It sucks, going out of my head with boredom. I've even started doing self-directed study for uni...desperate times. It's been a week and the swelling in my neck and cheek is yet to go down but the chipmunk look is getting me lots of sympathy! Get well soon.x

    Lorna Mac - 22nd November 2004 23:35 - #

  20. Oh My Lord, so what was the point in having the MMR then, it clearly does not prevent mumps. Mumps seems to be doing the rounds of the universities, my brother is at Nottingham they have it there, we have it here at Roehampton, and Birmingham has it too. Im a little worried as I have to look after a 6 week old baby on sunday and monday and my best friend has mumps so I've been exposed to it for 3 weeks without even knowing, can i pass it onto the baby and is it dangerous for her?

    Caroline - 25th November 2004 15:47 - #

  21. Hey Caroline, it usually takes 14-21 days to get the symptoms of mumps from when you're first infected. I think I've got mumps, :( Going the dr today to find out... Wish me luck!

    Chris Kennedy - 26th November 2004 10:36 - #

  22. My sympathy goes out 2 every1 with mumps! iv got it 2. how long does this swelling last? im missin serious social events but my face n neck look huge!

    Dani - 28th November 2004 18:03 - #

  23. I feel your pain everyone. Got the mumps 3 days ago. No pain downstairs yet but looking like a hampster. To fellow sufferers, get well soon.

    Dan - 28th November 2004 22:51 - #

  24. yeah i have mumps too and two of my flat mates in my halls of residence in Portsmouth. I think it might be spreading quite a bit. I had all my injections for it though. I wished i stayed in Scotland now instead of coming down here.

    Robyn - 30th November 2004 15:46 - #

  25. I'm at Birmingham uni and i have it also :( got it on saturday, i look so fat :P and i have the christmas ball on sunday, i'm going whether i look weird or not !

    Sami - 2nd December 2004 00:23 - #

  26. This is unreal! I believe I have the mumps, too. I am 52 years old and live in the USA. What is going on ?!?

    peggy - 3rd December 2004 16:05 - #

  27. The mumps have taken over!!!!!! Ive had the hamster look for nearly 6 days now-not good, sooooo painful. I pity any poor child that has to go through this.

    Karyn - 4th December 2004 14:18 - #

  28. Could mumps be the worst illness ever? obviously i know that it isn't the most deadly , or the most painful, but sitting around the house with great big fat face, terrified that your family jewels are gonna swell up like volley balls, is certainly worse than any illness ive had before. i would quite like to give those MMR docters a good hard slap for christmas!

    Jackson - 4th December 2004 16:23 - #

  29. Hi there, I have mumps too, had it nearly a week now- yes, it's quite boring being cooped up inside, haven't seen daylight for 5 days now! How long does it take to get better? (Attractive as the Shallow Hal look is!) By the way, am a Sheffield student, there's an epidemic going round my uni and Hallam too!

    Michelle - 6th December 2004 21:39 - #

  30. My daughter has mumps as well and we live in central Scotland. She complains of a heavy head and is not eating much and seems to be sleeping a lot and that is 5 days so far, just wondering how long the swelling will last for.

    RM - 8th December 2004 11:23 - #

  31. Just come down with the mumps yesterday and i feel like a gerbil. Housemates are already starting to take the mickey. Sleepless nights, getting up every 30mins for a pint of water and a temperature are the last thing i need. Hey at least i have an extension on my coursework. Can anyone tell me how long the gerbil look lasts??

    Chris - 8th December 2004 13:18 - #

  32. I wish my son had read these comments last week, might have given him some company quarantined in his lonely (but comfortable) cell at Durham University, receiving daily meals left by loyal friends at the door. Well, what did go wrong with that vaccine? The question is, for all the vaccinated, will the booster wear off as well?

    JM - 8th December 2004 18:45 - #

  33. The comment by JM has made me think, as my son of 18 has been given the booster MMR due to his sister of 21 having the mumps, will this work? She is now 6 days down the line and the swelling is still not going down, so if anyone out there knows of how long the swelling will last it might give her some hope as she is getting really down about being and feeling ill.

    RM - 9th December 2004 10:21 - #

  34. I got mumps on monday and swelling up more and more each day! was vaccinated nearly three weeks ago, its thought i caught it from the jab! sympathy for all who have it - it hurts believe me! Ah well, got out of uni presentation and no lectures til after xmas!! Helen (20 Bristol)

    Helen - 9th December 2004 17:59 - #

  35. I also came down with Mumps on monday, its very uncomfortable, my neck and sides of face are getting larger as I type ! Slight fevers here and there seem to be a regular occurence and dry mouth. Been taking painkillers otherwise its impossible to eat, feels like ya jaw is paralised!!! No one knows how long the swelling lasts ! ?????

    James Watson - 9th December 2004 19:40 - #

  36. You poor thing! Nottingham's infested as well-my housemate had it and I thought I'd escaped but woke up this morning with a distinct hamster look! Ah well, at least I can go home and infect all my mocking friends...Hope you're better by now!

    Charlie Girling - 10th December 2004 08:56 - #

  37. ahh i have the mumps too! and i do feel like a hamster with food in its mouth...i can't believe that there is no real treatment for the mumps apart from having to MMR jab to help prevent it but its impossible!it's nearly christmas and i don't want to celebrate it not enjoying the food etc...oh well i guess that even though it kills when i talk and chew its better to get it over and done with so i can't get it again....i just hope it goes away before january :(

    Natalie Balchin - 11th December 2004 14:52 - #

  38. A couple of weeks ago my roommate returned home from the UK after an unexpectedly abbreviated visit with her brother, a student at Birmingham. She'd been there only a few days when he came down with mumps, and her own class schedule made it impossible for her to extend her trip until he was well. Having had a booster inoculation she thought she'd be okay, but yesterday morning she woke up looking like a chipmunk with a winter's supply of nuts stored in her cheeks!

    Here in the U.S. we generally love British imports, but this is one we could definitely do without :(

    Despite at this point having very little faith in the MMR I did follow the advice I was given and got a booster shot yesterday, but am just keeping my fingers crossed that I don't come down with mumps at Christmas.

    Since the general consensus of medical opinion seems to be that having mumps is much worse for adults than it is for children, why don't we stop creating an artificial delay, allow kids to catch it and get it over with when they're six or seven, and not end up having to worry about the possible complications of a mumps epidemic among twenty-somethings?

    My mother's generation all had it as young children, and it wasn't thought of as dangerous or something that needed to be prevented until the pharmaceutical industry found a way to make money out of doing so.

    Best wishes to all of you, and hopes that all of us are well over the holidays!

    Kelly - 13th December 2004 03:36 - #

  39. Hi,

    I have had mumps since Dec.4th. On 7th day I could eat without pain, and on 8th the swelling had gone and I felt completely better. Next day however I was extremely tired and shivery. Since then for the last 3 days I've been back in bed running a temperature of 102 F day and night and can still feel a small lump under my chin. I'd be interested to know if anyone else has had this and would like to warn other hampsters to be cautious about feeling they've recovered.

    Felix

    Felix - 14th December 2004 20:10 - #

  40. Just finally recovered from the dreaded lurgy. Day 2/3 was agony!! Not having to go to uni and staying in bed for 8 days was fantastic. However when ure housemates go out and knowing that you arent allowed to,thats a bit depressing! Anyway, if u have the mumps, just ride it through and it will start to clear from day 6 onwards. Look on the bright side, u'll never have mumps EVER again. People who've had the jab will need to go back for another one in a few years time!!! All the best!!

    chris - 15th December 2004 10:50 - #

  41. I have the mumps and my mate does too, epidemic going round aparantly! im 20 and i cant believe iv got "the kissing disease!!!" (well.....with my reputation! lol) get well soon anyway, i hope i bloody do!!!

    Rob - 15th December 2004 13:17 - #

  42. I'm 55.Went to London recently.Picked up the "Mumps".Am the only case in the South of Ireland.Eight days in Hospital,six of those in Solitary confinement.No eats for six days(no appetite and no taste), water only plus 5 days on a "drip".Nearly two weeks later and still not right.Only benefit was losing about 10 lbs.weight and out of work until after Xmas.Looking forward to having appetite back for the Turkey.

    B Donovan - 16th December 2004 11:06 - #

  43. hey! was jst searching the web looking for info on how long the swelling lasts for mumps and came across this site! i had the bloody jab 2 weeks ago at uni, so there i was feelin all smug that id escaped it even tho one of my flat mates had it and i arrive home and BAM! now look like one sexy hamster. I can sympathise with everyone, could barely open my mouth on monday and tuesday, made eating terrible. Dont worry tho, mums home-made soup to the rescue!!(makes a change from uni..no veg..to all the veg in the world!) Its now thursday and one side is HUGE! im really hoping it will be gone by Sat as we are having a massice reunion with friends all back from uni. Am i being unrealistic? or does anyone think there is hope of swelling going by then, bearing in mind it started mon.

    Laura - 16th December 2004 16:09 - #

  44. I have twin sons aged 15, both had MMR as babies and boosters age 4 years. One has mumps the other left home temporarily! Ben had swollen neck glands for 4 days and that cleared up, went back to school for less than a week then began all over again, this time with obvious hamster look on both sides of his face and doctor confirmed he has dreaded mumps. Like others I thought MMR protected against this virus, now seems that's not the case - although his doctor suggested the first attack may have been fought off - however with virus being active before any visible change takes place it is possible he was exposed to others who were infected at his school in Southampton and was unable to fight it a second time.

    Harry - 20th December 2004 12:54 - #

  45. By the way, son back home from Durham now, no sign of the 'volleyballs' touch wood,and 'beachball face all deflated, but second son aged 16 has had what is probably his third jab, but I am still not confident. Better they had all had it when children perhaps, but on the other hand, perhaps the vaccination has at least made it a bit milder.

    JM - 20th December 2004 22:18 - #

  46. I had the MMR jab at Bath uni 3 weeks ago. Just got home to Ireland for Xmas and woke up with a huge swelling below my right jaw. Went to the doctor today and he diagnosed mumps. What exactly was the point in the vaccine if I just got it anyway!! Im in pain when I swallow and he just told me to take paracetamol and water. How am I going to enjoy my turkey on Saturday!!!! He says its not contageous after day 5 of the swelling so I should be safe to see people Xmas day. He said the swelling should go down in a few days, hopefully for New Years Eve. Good luck every1

    Greg - 21st December 2004 19:06 - #

  47. I had the MMR on Monday and on Saturday woke up with mumps. So what the hell was the point in he vaccine? Meant to fly home to Ireland today, hope they let me on the plane! Just worried my boyf has it now as it's worse for men. Well hope it'll have gone for New Years Eve. Good luck to everyone else whos got it!

    Helen - 22nd December 2004 14:40 - #

  48. dude feel sooo sorry for you, I have mumps right now too. I thought that once you had it you were immune for life, but if the doctors are lying to me (again!) i shall not be happy! I went to the docs and she said I had tonsilitis!! yeah right! and you look like a walrus when you have tonsilitis. I dunno why the whole uni population has suddenly decided to get mumps, but it is a good reason to get out of work..if only it wasn't the xmas holidays!! D'oh! Just my luck! Ah well, at least I can cheer myself up with the knowledge that I may have infected my ex boyfriend! mwahahaahaaaaahaaaa-ahem not bitter at all!! Get well soon too aaaaalllll the people with mumps! (that's what? half of all 18-21 year old in the country?!) hope it doesn't ruin ur xmas too much...

    Vicky - 22nd December 2004 21:08 - #

  49. God! Hated it, i've got mumps at the mo! Its horrible, i can't sleep i can't eat. i thought i had got rid of it i started off about 10 days ago and the left side ov my neck swole up! I went to the docters and they sed i had a virul throat infection! No sooner had the swelling gone down a day later the other side cum up! I dont think theres any hope of getting better in time for my christmas dinner! O well! :'( Get Better n e 1 in the same boat as me :)

    Marsey!! - 23rd December 2004 10:06 - #

  50. God! Hated it, i've got mumps at the mo! Its horrible, i can't sleep i can't eat. i thought i had got rid of it i started off about 10 days ago and the left side ov my neck swole up! I went to the docters and they sed i had a virul throat infection! No sooner had the swelling gone down a day later the other side cum up! I dont think theres any hope of getting better in time for my christmas dinner! O well! :'( Get Better n e 1 in the same boat as me :)

    Marsey!! - 23rd December 2004 10:07 - #

  51. ha, ha, christmas day... and here i am with my suspected case of the mumps. i don't look too pretty and when i just tried to eat the pain on both sides of my jaw was pretty awful. what's worse the doctor told me to avoid contact with others. so here i am... on my own. i hope everyone else is having a great christmas! now, back to updating my journal� http://www.livejournal.com/users/andrewkendall/ :P

    Andrew - 25th December 2004 12:28 - #

  52. Another mumps sufferer here! Having had it twice already as a child (the second time confirmed with a blood test) i figured i was pretty much sorted, immunity wise! Returned home from uni..to find out one of my housemates has been struck down with the dreaded hamster/gerbil/walrus*(delete as appropriate!) affliction. "Phew!" i thought...at least i'll be alright.... I spoke too soon. The next day, i awoke with that too-familiar sensititve neck and cheek feeling...and the lovely look of having hoarded a winters-worth of food in my mouth. That was on Tuesday...and now its Boxing day. Thank god the swelling is beginning to subside. Am i a medical marvel or what? 3 times, and im only 21! Managed to load myself up with Nurofen to *try* and have some xmas dinner (its only once a year! was gona try my damn hardest to eat what i could) Its been a memorable christmas, thats for sure. I can empathise with all you mumps-affected people..i hope you feel better soon! may 2005 be more lucky!!

    Jules - 26th December 2004 20:30 - #

  53. UPDATE: Guys been able to eat since Xmas Eve. Had my Xmas dinner with no pain and the swelling started to go down Xmas Eve and is now totally gone and I feel totally recovered (Today-Boxing Day) For those of you still ill Ive one word .... WATER. Guys I swear this cured me, you need to flush the mumps out. I must have been drinking 4 or 5 litres a day. Got first swelling on Monday 20th and totally cured by 25th. And for help with the swelling take an Ibuprofen and it should come down a bit. Good luck guys! Greg.....PS- WATER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Greg - 26th December 2004 20:47 - #

  54. Bet ya cant guess what i have got ........ yep mumps !!! symptoms started christmas eve(of all days!!!) and as a great lover of my food I was gutted , its been 4/5 days now and my swelling is getting worse! , my boyfriend is taking great delight in the bo selecta , gerbal jokes but its all wearing a little thin for me!! I keep driking lots of water and ibuprofen but nothing is happening!!! thinking of all you fellow mumpers out there , hoping we will all be better for new year. Lauren , west yorkshire

    lauren - 27th December 2004 15:17 - #

  55. IM AN UMPER MUMPER!!.....crap!!! am not happy! Ive had tonsilitus for the last month and now ive got a chin on me like Sophie Ellis-Bextor. I started getting pain in my jaw on Christmas day but thought i had a mouth ulcer or sumthing and then i woke up on boxing day in agony, only being able to open my mouth enough to pop a couple of pain killers in. ive probs given everyone at work the old hamster's curse now..but it was double pay being boxing day and all! Ill be going to the doctors on wednesday as they are closed today and tomorrow pfft Ive been wondering if its possible for people to carry the disease but not actually show any of the syptoms, my sister recently came back from uni (durham) where there'd been a few breakouts..but shes fine *lucky cow* and ive got it???? Anyhoo i hope everyone gets better soon..and i also think some other kinda forum should be set up so people can send in photos to compare their fat chins!

    Tomoose - 27th December 2004 21:57 - #

  56. i missed my annual christmas party last night due to the old mumps. i stayed up in my room looking like a the slug man out of star wars in hellish pain while my entire family got drunk and had a great laugh. why on earth did i get infected - ive had my MMR vaccination. ijust hope all the other vaccinations against polio, tb, menigitis are not quite so useless. i have my driving test on the 6th of January and i just hope my testicles do not flare up and the facial swelling goes away.

    ct - 29th December 2004 12:08 - #

  57. While my previously-infected roommate fully recovered in time to enjoy the holidays, I woke up with mumps on Christmas morning. So much for the MMR booster! For the first three days the swelling was only on the left side, but then yesterday it spread to the right as well and I'm now in major hamster mode. It's too painful to either eat or talk, both sides of my face are blown up like balloons, and I'm in quarantine until 2 January. I've had the mumps for 5 days now and the jaw and cheek swelling is still getting worse-- how long can this go on? Mumps may not be the MOST unpleasant thing one can have, but it will certainly do until something else comes along!

    My sympathy and best wishes for a much better new year to all the rest of you who've been having bouts with mumps-- at least when we're over it we'll never have to have it again!

    Kelly-The-Hamster

    Kelly - 30th December 2004 02:42 - #

  58. i was supposed to start a new job yesterday but guess what.... yup the mumps. they should give this as punishment to inmates as nothing hurts more!!!

    claire - 5th January 2005 10:26 - #

  59. Hi, i was just looking for info on mumps as i have now just developed the hamster look yesterday.Found this site, found it very helpful. I think that most people who attend uni has it. There apparently has been loads of people with mumps down here in south wales. Thats all i'm doing is sleeping all day. As then the jaw pain is not so bad. I hope we all get better soon !!!!!!!!!!!

    zoe - 5th January 2005 14:28 - #

  60. Just a progress report for sufferers, I noticed the first swelling on the 20/12/04, got worse so by Christmas day I couldn't eat without inflicting terrible pain on myself (water and pain killers helped) and I just wanted to sleep all day. By the 27/12/04 I was able to eat a little better, but still with pain and by the 29/12/04 I felt reasonably recovered except for a very dry mouth and tiredness which stayed with me for the next few days. It's now the 5/1/05 and today both my gf and flat mate noticed their first symptoms. So touch wood I don't get it again!!!

    Andrew Kendall - 5th January 2005 18:24 - #

  61. hey MUMPSTERS yep u guessesd it i am yet another mump infected person,I live and work in warrington in a local nightclub so if i served you a drink i probably served a side order of this delightful disease! looking like something out of wallace and gromit has not been easy and the pain of it! makes u really apreciate good health ( and looks!) get well soon every1!!!!!!

    dominique - 7th January 2005 17:23 - #

  62. Well, I'm 15 and I have it since Monday and well the swelling it getting bigger and bigger so theres no sign of it going down now in 5 days, suppose it is better to get it out of the way at my age rather than having it when i'm older

    Kyren - 8th January 2005 01:48 - #

  63. argh ive had mumps since yesterday and it hurts :( please please please go away before monday. ive got so much work to do and can't miss my deadline of monday mumps or no mumps. :( I look really fat with no neck and oww when i tried to eat an orange. I'm from durham but think i must've caught this in lancaster where i go to uni? I dunno. What's the quickest it's gone away for people? I'm drinking lots of water. Hope everyone gets better soon :)

    chelle - 8th January 2005 11:01 - #

  64. Hi folks on my 12th day of mumps and this morning the swelling has grown again. Thought i was getting better but unfortunately not. Starting to really get me down now, wish it would go away.All ive got to say is thank heaven for Co-codamol pain killers. At least i have got a fortnight off work. Hope you all ave a speedy recovery(unlike me)

    Gareth Davies - 9th January 2005 12:25 - #

  65. Gareth, I really sympathize! I came down with mumps Christmas morning and wasn't over it until yesterday-- two entire weeks. The swelling returned after it had seemed to be much better, and for a while I wondered if I'd ever look like myself again! But I can promise you that there IS an end in sight, even if you have a particularly bad case, and although it may feel as if you've had the mumps forever, you'll be over it before much longer.

    For me the worst part of having mumps has been not being able to see my boyfriend since Christmas Eve. I was so worried about him catching mumps from me that I didn't let him anywhere near me even after the contagious stage was over, and so we've spent hours on the phone. So after all that precaution what happened? His symptoms started Friday and he was diagnosed yesterday.

    I thought that at least now it would be possible for me to stay with him and take care of him, but his doctor warned me that my immune system wasn't ready for it and I'd be asking for a relapse.

    (He's in no condition to appreciate the thought right now, but I've reminded him that, eventually, the two of us are going to have one hell of a reunion!)

    I hope everyone gets well soon! While you're waiting it out remember to drink lots of water, AVOID CITRUS (and anything else with a sharp, tangy quality as it's extremely painful), get as much rest as possible, and remember that mumps, too, shall pass.

    At long last, Post-Hamster Kelly

    Kelly - 10th January 2005 01:33 - #

  66. after the fever subsided how long did it take for the swelling to go down? apart from the jaw pain and evil hamster/huge neck thing I feel fine now.

    chelle - 10th January 2005 19:06 - #

  67. Chelle, I really don't think my experience was typical. My roommate-- who brought mumps home with her from England :( -- had a fever for the first 5 days, and then the swelling gradually diminished until it was completely gone by day 9. She didn't really feel 100% for another few days, but was still up to going home for the holidays and doing everything she'd planned. Her mumps followed pretty much the expected course, and for your sake I hope that yours do the same!

    I also went home for the holidays, but then came down with mumps-- which I'd hoped wouldn't happen, but suspected might. (I'd warned my mother that this was a possibility, but she said that if I were going to have the mumps I should definitely be at home where she could take care of me-- thank heavens for that!).

    Christmas morning I woke up with a fever and a very tender, rapidly increasing swelling below my left jaw. The swelling spread to the other side and continued to get worse for several days-- the worst of the hamster period. It was very bad and extremely painful through day 7, when it finally began to go down. Until that point I'd continued to run a mid-to-low grade fever. The next morning the fever was gone, and the swelling was much better. By the afternoon of day 9 I thought I was almost over the mumps, but that night the fever returned and the right side of my face puffed up again. It was another 2 days before the fever broke, and 3 more before the swelling was completely gone.

    That was a couple of days ago and I still don't have much strength, so will wait another week before returning to school (U.C.L.A). My boyfriend is now in bed with mumps and of course feels like hell-- something for which I feel completely responsible, as I'd not realized that mumps are contagious for a few days BEFORE the symptoms turn up, and that he shouldn't have been exposed to me during any of the time in which it was possible for me to come down with mumps. I really hope this isn't going to spread much further!

    It does seem that most people who've had the mumps in this recent siege haven't had them for much more than a week-- and in some instances even less time than that-- and this will probably be true for you, as well. Those who've remained ill for a longer period, such as myself and poor Gareth, are the exception and not the rule.

    Take heart, the chances are very good that your hamster look will be disappearing before long, and I hope you'll be well very soon!

    Kelly - 11th January 2005 01:54 - #

  68. I'm in Holland and my 4 yr old has the mumps! And he was vaccinated as a baby. So now we're probably all going to get it including the 2 yr old and my husband and I (who have never had it but who were vaccinated). Yaargh!

    Ashleigh - 11th January 2005 08:48 - #

  69. Yeah i got mumps too, without any kissing to show for it. Oh well. A week off work, who are pissed off with me. I also had the jab, jesus what was in that thing, water? Anyway i'm on my gap year now, but i feel the experience has given me an insight into university life so i guess it isn't all bad. Mump Out

    Joseph - 11th January 2005 12:43 - #

  70. i caught the mumps from a fat guy at work and i wasn't even kissing him.. =P to be fair it does hurt when you eat because it's the sailvary glands that swell up.. but i don't think i'm in nearly half the pain you guys are in.. it is effort to eat though.. but.. paid week off work! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! best disease ever! =D

    dirtbag - 15th January 2005 17:46 - #

  71. i too have the mumps , im 37 , cant beleive it really . my 12 yr old son had it over xmas so inevitable i would get it too, i had the vacine as a child and so did he ,so whats going wrong.I have been swollen now for 8 days now its doing my head in, hope it goes down by tomorrow im out on the town. look out swansea, lol . get well soon everyone

    karen - 19th January 2005 11:28 - #

  72. I am 30 and have got mumps. Felt a swelling behind my jawline on Friday 14th Jan and ended up going to emergency GP next day to be diagnosed with mumps. Worrying thing is that I when I was 16 I deliberately asked my GP for an MMR jab as I did not have mumps as a child........got an MMR jab but obviously didn't work. 5 days on a swelling is still there...... Am currently off work and at home.

    Dave - 19th January 2005 23:37 - #

  73. please help someone! when does the swelling go away and does it go down fully? please someone write in! am on my 8th day and depressed. thanx.

    shannon - 20th January 2005 21:27 - #

  74. Hey guys, im at sheffield uni and have been diagnosed with the dreaded. Apparently got it from someone on the ski trip but i don't even know who they are! so def no kissing! Id already had the jab and booster before i came to uni, as there is an epedemic going on here. Obviously did no good though, like all the other people on this site. Thankfully im not swollen yet and have had it for 3 days. It absolutely kills though, and i found out about sour foods when i sucked a lemon sweet.-just don't do it!im also v bored as confined to my room til Tuesday. Never mind it might actually make me do some work for once!

    emily - 22nd January 2005 13:59 - #

  75. Hi, I think we've beaten you all. 2 of our 4 children have got mumps even after they've had the MMR. My husband has gone down with it tonight even though he had it when he was 4 and on top of that I've broken my foot which wont heal and I've been in plaster up to my knee for 15 weeks with no weight allowed on it so there you go we are having great fun!!!!! Hope you all feel better soon.

    jacquie - 23rd January 2005 22:26 - #

  76. just been diagnosed with mumps. the most annoying thing is i feel fine! (im sure this will change tho). went to the Dr's on friday with a swollen face and they told me to come back if it got worse!Monday arrived with no improvement, so i went back and they told me it was mumps.... Perhaps the house party i had on sat night was a bad idea, as ive just been told im not allowed to attend university for a week or see anyone. oops!!

    clare - 24th January 2005 13:00 - #

  77. Hey guys, another Mumps sufferer over here, isnt it ridiculous how the doctors seem to try to convince you that you've got something other than the Mumps?! I was told that i had a 'gladular reaction to an infection' erm...what infection?!?!? so...two days after taking the prescribed medication (penicilin) the swelling hasn't gone down and the pain hasn't subsised. I'm so glad i found this site and am comforted to know that its not that uncommon even when you've already had the MMR vacination and are 21! Gutted i caught 'The kissing disease' when i didn't actually kiss anyone!!! :-D Take care all, get well soon!! B x x

    Bailey - 25th January 2005 16:25 - #

  78. Howdy every one my name is scott, i think i have noticed i to have caught the 'kissing disease' and i also havnt kissed anyone lately!!! i have a swollen jaw, and looks like a large lump. I am on the way to the doctors later on, but i reckon the same will be told to myslef I bet the doctor tells me i havnt got the mumps to...how ill will i get if i do have the mumps?, can any one explain to me how it feels? I am 16 years old and i have been told I could become insterile! please tell me the chances off this happeinng are slim. If any one could report back i would be most greatfull scott x

    scott saunders - 26th January 2005 08:56 - #

  79. what was the damm point in getting the so called MMR. its supposed to stop this right. just found out ive got the mumps and worst of all i was meant to be heading on a trip next week. i hope im better for then. any quick fix remedies anyone so ill get better fast???

    Michelle - 26th January 2005 18:25 - #

  80. well i went to the Dr yesterday cos i noticed small lump at back of jaw which wasn't sore at all.. she then found one the other side which i somehow hadnt noticed and reckons its mumps, im waiting for the result of a blood test. Thing is they havent gotten any bigger at all and while i felt fine yesterday feel kinda flulike symptoms today.... really hope its not mumps cos from the sounds of your comments they will get bigger and painful....agghhh!!

    Sheena - 26th January 2005 20:41 - #

  81. Hi, i started feeling two little lumps under my ears 3 days ago. went to the doctors almost certain i had the dreaded disease...i was right :-( now i look like i am storing chicken nuggets in my cheeks and everyone is laughing! i have had this for tow days and still the swelling is here. i have a bad feeling i am going to be bed ridden for a week or more. things i have found to help are: water, paracetemol, sleeping tablets eg nytol, and more water! i havnt eaten for two days, lost my appetite. what i would give for a nice steak now.

    Nic - 27th January 2005 18:30 - #

  82. Hi,just 2 let people know- could only properly eat on the 14th day of mumps! I mean properly. Still have very dry/sticky mouth tho and on my 16th day. Swellen goes down very slowly and gradually sorry 2 say have 2 be honest but going out tonight for first time in ages! Mumps is different for everyone some people can be 5days or 25.

    atlanta - 29th January 2005 13:31 - #

  83. Just read through this thread. Very interesting read! My sister had mumps at Xmas, i have only just got it now. Its a right bastard of a virus isnt it! Very paintful, hate the fevor felling. I am very tired, sore, headachey, sickly etc etc. Just wondering has any of the Blokes here had there balls effected from the virus? This is ultimatly what i am most worried about!!!!

    will - 1st February 2005 16:12 - #

  84. Well I've just come down with it yesterday despite having had MMR when i was 7 and have to take a week off school. Have also got all my friends worried cos I was at a big dinner party with 80 other people on Saturday..... But I'm glad to see other people have got it despite having had the MMR and I'm not just some freak of nature

    Nader - 1st February 2005 22:14 - #

  85. Ive just come down with the dreaded mumps aswell. I hate not being able to sleep or eat properly - I'm so unbelievably bored aswell. But its quite relieving to read this thread and see other people suffering aswell! Really sucks being away from my girlfriend whose worrying loads that she may get it too! Just hoping I'm getting the wort bit over and done with now!

    Suckerpunch - 2nd February 2005 15:17 - #

  86. well, i have had mumps for a week now. i am unlucky enough to have some of the male problems that come as part of the package. the swelling in my glands were regualted to one side, causing discomfort and a "hamster look", mentioned by nearly all here! Plus the pain in the other area? simply, incredibly bad. very uncomfortable although it eases with pain killers. just make sure if you have these symptoms that you make your doctor AWARE. my docs took a provisional WEEK before they succesfully removed me off antibiotics for an assumed "blocked Salivary gland" . Feeling a little better now a week on. had the injection when i was younger but apparently i have missed out on the Booster. GRRRRRR. feel better soon ever1. ad.

    AJc - 2nd February 2005 23:36 - #

  87. I came down with the mumps 3 days ago and I seem to have passed through the fever stage and I think my swelling has gone down very slightly. Is this way too quick for a recovery to begin!? I bloody hope not! Still painfull to eat anything and I cant lie on one side. I sympathise with everyone whose got this crappy condition! Get welll soon!!!

    Suckerpunch - 3rd February 2005 11:04 - #

  88. I had a bad cold for a week and a half then shook it off, lo behold mumps had sneaked in behind it. Had MMR but was told didnt need booster "more trouble than its worth" apparantly. Then again I feel lucky, after 3 days fever fading and feeling more like myself. Still a hamster tho...anyway petrified about what might swell next!

    Nick - 3rd February 2005 20:40 - #

  89. How bizarre! I had no idea there was a mumps epidemic going on. Just been reported on the news! Wasn't really hungry for a few days over the weekend then on Monday I had a pain in my jaw when I ate. On tuesday I went to work with tenderness on both sides of my jaw. Despite having the MMR I knew I had no immunity. I was also told not to bother with a booster! I warned people I might have mumps but they just said I was paranoid. I'm a physiotherapist in a big hospital so probably infected a fair few people before realising what was going on. Also went to a house party on Sat! On Wed I woke up with small golf balls under my chin but still no real problems. Thought I must just have some infection that my body was so efficiently fighting I had no symptoms. Tried to get a doctors appointment because I work with vulnerable people but to no avail! Yesterday I woke up with a distinctly swollen face. Decided to go to work but get a doctors appointment. Was told to phone occupational health who told me it was probably mumps and to go home. Doctor has now signed me off for 7 days to start with! Even more swollen today but distinctly ok! Had some pain when I woke up but took paracetamol and managed a bacon sandwich for lunch! Just a sticky mouth. Now trying to convince people to come and visit the hamster! I just hope I don't get a sudden increase in bad symptoms! All those hamsters out there, take care of yourself!

    Susie - 4th February 2005 15:00 - #

  90. ive got mumps and its so stressful not being able to see freinds and have 2 be so alone so bored and im gonna miss a big football competion i would be playing in that i got so exicted about just b4 i got mumps. FUCKING ANNOYING exuse my french but FUCK it

    dave - 4th February 2005 15:47 - #

  91. there have quite a few cases of 16-18 year olds in east herts getting it, its been going around a lot. such an annoying illness/diesease , sitting at home , bored all day not ebing albe 2 see anyone or doing anything, worst illness ive had and believe me ive had a lot of different things including injuries such as broken leg 3 years ago

    man from hertfordshire - 4th February 2005 17:10 - #

  92. I'm a Bristol UWE radiography student, on placement in gloucester royal hospital, I've come back to bristol for the weekend and may face is beginning to fucking hurt on the left side jawbone below my ear and I feel real tired. No swelling yet, but is this mumps? I dunno whether I should go back to the hospital to work! It's a pain getting a doctors appointment, and I'll need a sick note...argh! Stress. Does this sound like the onset of mumps of have I been punched in my sleep do you think?!?

    Luke - 5th February 2005 16:22 - #

  93. Thats what ive got, im really tired, jaw hurts n it kinda feels all numb. i think im guna wake up with mumps 2moro

    Charl - 5th February 2005 16:42 - #

  94. Luke and Charl, I dont want to say you will get the mumps but in my case anyway, thats what happened to me. I had a pain just below my ear and a small lump. It took just one night for it to come up full and it did really hurt. The pain does go away though so don't fret too much. I'm on my fifth day now and whilst my face is still swollen and I cant eat properly, I feel fine - just very very bored being stuck in! It does suck getting the mumps, but dont worry yourself too much because if you do get it - its not that bad and you'l only ever have to go through it the once for the entirity of your life! Anwyay fingers crossed it wont be the mumps!

    Suckerpunch - 5th February 2005 21:03 - #

  95. just another person stuck at home till my face starts to get smaller. went home for the weekend, and then back up to leeds on sunday, only to be bloody sent home again on monday with the mumps. fantastic! bored out of my mind, going stir crazy! why didnt i just get that booster shot!

    Laura - 10th February 2005 13:53 - #

  96. I thought I'd had the dreaded mumps... then I started to feel a bit out of sorts. I couldn't figure out what was wrong, then I realised my manager went off with it two weeks ago. So I called mum - and she said, "Oh, you never had that, your sister did but you never caught it!" So off to the doctor with me, and he said, "It's too soon to say, but it's very likely". By late yesterday afternoon I have joined the ranks of the lop-sided hamsters as the right side of my face and neck decided to swell up. This morning, to my delight, the left side has joined it :) I think the bit I'm having trouble getting my head around is that nobody ever told me it would be this painful. Still, could be worse - at least I'm not a bloke!

    Wyvern - 11th February 2005 11:51 - #

  97. My son spent his 17th birthday in bed with mumps. He has been in bed a week already. Could not get out of bed to walk because of the pain in one of his nuts which then progressed into his stomach. Almost passed out trying to walk. Hasn't been eating very much and then yesterday started throwing everything he tried to eat and drink back up. As for suckerpunch saying it's not that bad - what I have seen my son going through it's enough to worry the life out of anyone. My doctor has advised in extreme cases it can also cause pancreatitis and encephalitis. Keep taking the paracetamol is all I can say.

    Anne - 14th February 2005 16:13 - #

  98. Last friday i noticed that the area around my jaw/ear was swelled slightly, thinking a night on the ale would cure this i went for a few pints after work as it was friday only to wake up Saturday morning with a hangover and a jaw like desperate dan! I was in so much pain i was nearly crying, sunday wasn't much better. Went to the doctors yeaterday to find out i have the dreaded mumps. I'm not too bad after pain killers even though my face swells up even more when i eat. I havent had any pain downstairs yet but if any of the lads on here have...At what point did you notice this? I'm absolutely shitting myself with the prospect of being sterile and i'm not too happy on the idea of my plums being the size of bowling balls.

    Sean - 15th February 2005 22:26 - #

  99. Sean, from what I can gather from my doctor and all the resources on the net, if your balls are going to swell it'll be a few days after when your face does. It isnt pleasant - I had the mumps a few weeks ago myself and noticed a dull ache "down there" about 4 days after my face swelled, which scared me shitless. But it never actually came to anything as nothing swelled and it went away. I have to say this is the worst part of the mumps - just being scared they're going to blow up to the size of volley balls!! I'd try not to worry too much as from what I can gather permanent sterility from mumps is actually quite rare contrary to what a lot of the public says. Anyway best of luck Sean! Hope it goes away soon!

    ditto - 16th February 2005 13:35 - #

  100. hey hampsters (sorry). Yes another case of the mumps. I had it at the end of jan. a week later swelling went and felt fine after for about a week. After that week another lump decided to come up on the other side of my face. ear was in a lot of pain but after a few days it has gone down a lot but you can still see i look like i have a double chin. Hopefully this should be gone soon and hope it doesnt repeat. Has anyone else had the same problem? Get well all :( }

    steven - 17th February 2005 16:17 - #

  101. Yet another older mumps sufferer, I'm 44. My youngest daughter had a friend for a sleepover at the beginning of Feb, her mum rang up to let me know on the Monday she had been sent home from school with Mumps, wanted to let me know as I have a teenage son. Well all my children were immunised and they were fine, but on the Thursday at work I went down with Mumps, fever, aching jaw, earache, swelling in my glands. I am now on my 3rd week of being signed off work, the damn Mumps won't go. Last week I seemed to pick up and went back to work for 1 day and spent the entire day feeling like I was going down with the damn Mumps all over again!!! Doctors have told me that because I'm an adult it will take me longer to get over it. Everyone else on here who has it has my sympathies, Mumps sucks!!!!

    Steph - 20th February 2005 20:38 - #

  102. Hi, all. yet another happy hamster!!! Got the teltale lump on Monday 21st Feb and just been swelling more and more til now (Friday). The lump is only on one side and hopefully it will stay that way. Like Sean I'm pretty worried about it spreading downstairs but, fingers crossed, all OK so far. Anyone have any thought on environmental factors that increase/decrease chance of it spreading there?, e.g. did those of you in which it didn't spread keep them warm/cool, full/emptied regularly (sorry ladies!) etc. Prob being over paranoid but surely these things may play some small role other than pure chance? Anyway, hope all you poor buggers get well soon, Alec

    Alec, Southampton - 25th February 2005 12:22 - #

  103. got it too, on my fourth day now. Just wondered if any of you felt the depression, when i first got it especially i felt so so low, but maybe that was just me! i dunno what i'm going to do for the next week, thats if it'll even be gone ithin the next week! Just wondering as well what you guys were eating all i can manage is soup,yoghurt and ice cream, anyone manage anything else? the worst is not seeing the boyfriend and the friends and missing loadsa wok at skool (a level) nd missing nights out and not being able to go to work, this has to be one of the most depressing illnesses. I thought the boughts of tonsilitus i get every four months were bad but mumps even beats that! oh well mums gone to get me some ice cream :) just hope everyone gets better soon because its horrible!

    samantha,leics - 26th February 2005 17:23 - #

  104. not meaning to worry you anne but the symptoms your son are suffering seem to be more than mumps i'd tell the doctor ll his symptoms again if i were you, just incase!

    jemma - 26th February 2005 17:26 - #

  105. Hey. Ive got the mumps at the moment. I was just cheking out this website to see how long I woul dbe swelling?!?! So far its day 4 but evrytime I wake up I seem to be gettin more swollen :S I hope i dont explode! does this happen to everyone? I hope i wont grow any bigger. I miss my boyfriend too :( not too bothered bout the school work!! hehe!

    Steph - 27th February 2005 17:18 - #

  106. I am from the US and am 18 M I know the mumps would be a pain in the butt, however because I plan to do lots of traveling in the next few years I am thinking it might be best to go ahead and get the mumps over and done with. I know I might sound nuts, however if anyone is willing to help me pull this off I would be willing to pay them for their trouble. Thanks in advance and hope someone reading this is willing to help.

    David - 28th February 2005 04:58 - #

  107. I forgot to add for those willing to help my email is ihateskewlboy@yahoo.com

    David - 28th February 2005 05:00 - #

  108. Steph, My face stopped swelling about 4/5 and is now starting to ease off and I think go down a little too (Monday - day 7). Your face certainly shouldn't carry on swelling and expode! David, it would not be advisable to seek to contract mumps. It can have serious side effects in adults, especially males, where in 1 in 4 cases a testicle becomes infected with the virus and swells and becomes very painfull. If it spreads to both testicles it can sometimes cause infertility. I would recommend you get immunised against the virus at the doctor, which is a much safer and less painfull way of going about it!!

    Alec, southampton - 28th February 2005 13:11 - #

  109. Alec, thanks for your concern I know the risk involved, and I know the MMR does not work nearly as well as they claim that it does. I do know that geting mumps natually will oprobably leave me immune for life and am ready to take the risk. If anyone is willing to help email me because I am serious about doing this.

    DAVID - 28th February 2005 15:24 - #

  110. day 6 of the mumps, and it was even bigger this morning, but i'm much happier now because i know the end is insight, it can only last another week maximum if i'm unlucky so i'm around half way there and gone through the worst of it! so i'm going to start planning that girly night out i;m going to have, and the reunion with the boyfriend , wahoo ;)

    samantha,leics - 28th February 2005 16:46 - #

  111. Hey me again! Is it just my mumps...or are all mumps ment to be solid? It feels like i have literal golf balls in my thoat i am so worried bout it. Is it meant to be hard?

    Steph - 28th February 2005 22:57 - #

  112. Well looks like am a new member.i caught the mumps on saturday past there.Well i know the symptoms only start to show within 10days of having them.am jaws r like golf balls an my throats get quiet sore and i tend to get pains in my balls alot but ive been checked by the doctor am=n at the minute everythings ok.

    kevin - 1st March 2005 15:20 - #

  113. Hi guys, WEll thank god i found this site! I got mumps this weekend (or started to swell then) and both sides of my face are affected. Its day 2 now. Its weird, i feel alright in myself, just a little tired. I too am worried about my jewells swelling up. Im paranoid that they will any time. Can you avoid it? Also, i was told after they swell they shrink to smaller than ever before and stay like it. Does anyone know if thats true? Anyway, i hope you all get well. Im told drink shit loads of water and it goes in a week or so. Arron - London

    Arron - 1st March 2005 21:43 - #

  114. well had it a week now and feeling better, my right cheek is still up but i'm not getting any pain from it, but my tonsils are pretty huge and making it hard to swallow, i'm just waiting to see if it spreads to the other side now!

    samantha,leics - 2nd March 2005 08:04 - #

  115. If anyone is willing to help me get the mumps feel free to email me at ihateskewlboy@yahoo.com or feel free to private message me. I know the risk and have stated my reasons for wanting to do this in an earlier message. Feel free to contact me at anytime because I am quite serious about this. I can also be contacted at lil_salad_fingers@hotmail.com for those who use MSN messenger or prefer to not write to a yahoo address.

    DAVID - 2nd March 2005 17:24 - #

  116. Hi, I saw your sight thought I'd let you know that my husband has had the mumps three times. Turns out it's something to do with the saliva glands in his mouth. Now when he starts to swell he has to suck on lemon drops. But he isn't infectous any more. It's really weird because I've never had the mumps. Have a good time trying to find someone who can give them to you. It's pretty hard to get them from someone no matter what you do. Mary

    Mary Echelberger - 2nd March 2005 20:20 - #

  117. In Britain there used to be "mumps parties" for young children to get the mumps over with. My 3 oldest children had mumps when they were 3, nearly 2 and nearly 1 respectively (pureed christmas dinner all round) but the 2 youngest are still waiting and I am getting concerned that when they do get it they will get it harder because older. I don't believe swollen testicles occurs in boys pre-puberty. I hope the mother whose 17 year old obviously had it quite badly has some better news to report. For the rest of you, enjoy your convalescence and the enforced break from the frenetic world!

    Mari - 2nd March 2005 22:40 - #

  118. Mary, I was thinking someone could send me like a t-shirt or something they slept in while they were quite infectious, or something like that. I know this is not gonna be fun, but I do want to this over and done with. Anyone who is willing to help contact me as soon as you see this.

    DAVID - 3rd March 2005 01:10 - #

  119. David, You are mad. Since my last posting my right testicle has swollen to the size of a tennis ball and the pain is unbearable. If you are a guy, just get the vaccine. Mumps IS NOT something you want to go through - believe me!! Arron - London

    Arron - 3rd March 2005 12:42 - #

  120. I am going for the mmr vaccine today, tho i'm not too full of hope as some of you have had it and still got the dreaded hamster disease. I don't like needles either, but mumps sounds much MUCH worse. Its a bit of an epicdemic, its spreading around salford uni and other uni's like wildfire, surely there will soon be no one left to catch it?!? Thinking about just staying in my room away from everyone til it passes.... tho my boyfriend apparantly knows someone on his course who's housemate has got it, so chances are she has, he might and i could have. I'm doomed aren't I? Claire Salford

    claire - 3rd March 2005 13:27 - #

  121. Ive had it since saturday, started on my right side then went down, decided to move to my left side on monday and has pretty much gone down now except under my jaw where i feel like a bullfrog. No other swelling thank god! but i have been getting headaches and my eyes are really bloodshot. worth going back to the nurse? (its the 6th day now)

    Steve - 3rd March 2005 13:44 - #

  122. my dads got mumps (caught it off me) hahahahaha

    ben - 3rd March 2005 18:43 - #

  123. I am at Lincoln University and my symptoms started on Sunday with the feeling someone had smacked me in the mouth. Then Monday came and I noticed my right cheek had grown. I didn't let it bother me until I had a severe pain when trying to shovel coco pops in my mouth on the Tuesday morning. I saw the doctor 2day (Thursday) which shows how appauling the facilities are at this University! He didn't pescribe me anything, he just sent me off to have a blood test, for confirmation I had mumps. I hate needles, and the thought of having one stuck in my arm to confirm the inevitable I found hard to accept. Anyway since hearing the 'testicle' news I have immediatelly felt different in the downstairs department, I'm praying it is just psychological! I'm 5 days into what I have read is a 7 day swelling period, I just hope I've been through the worst! Best Wishes to all out their experiencing the same anxiety as I have felt!

    Dave - 3rd March 2005 20:36 - #

  124. Dave, again, from Lincoln University! I swear you only get sore 'balls' if you worry about it, since hearing the news it was a possibility all I've done is tense up round that region and prey, and I keep feeling shooting pains in my balls. I have religiously read every comment on this site wanting more information on these events. What are the warning signs? How many days into the Virus will you get these pains? Please, some poor sucker out there must have the answers. It might be painful memories, but please share! Thanx, Dave

    Dave - 3rd March 2005 21:40 - #

  125. Dave i know what you mean, everytime i think of the dreaded swelling down there, i swear they quake with fear! Apparently if it happens, you know about it. I saw the words "tennis ball" mentioned somewhere on here :S

    Steve - 4th March 2005 00:22 - #

  126. I am still very serious about wanting to get the mumps, and anyone who is willing to help email me ihateskewlboy@yahoo.com or feel free to instant message me. I am usually on messnger but go on as invisable so feel free to email or message me at any time.

    DAVID - 4th March 2005 18:57 - #

  127. right i'm writing as someone who's lived through mumps! i'm on day 9 now, on day 7 i could eat with minimal pain, day 8 the swelling went from my right hand side but today have woken up and the swelling is on the left hand side but its not that big and the pain is bearable. I also havn't got the fever with this side so all in all hoping to be back at college on monday after having been stuck in with no contact for around ten days! You start to feel much better from day 6 onwards and life becomes liveable again! Hope ur all gettin beta

    samantha,leics - 4th March 2005 19:34 - #

  128. Hi, bit of a mumps disaster - I have finals exams in 8 days (have had mumps now for 4 days) - will my fat face have subsided in time, and do you think I can sit exams (will I still be infectious??) Aaagghhhh. Nice being off uni, but this is really panicking me

    Sarah - 5th March 2005 16:07 - #

  129. ur not infectious afta day 7 nd at worst swellin shud go day 10 or 11 so all shud b gd (Y)

    sam - 5th March 2005 16:30 - #

  130. I got the mumps several years ago when I was in my 30's. It hurt so bad in my jaw that I was in tears. My boyfriend thought I was nuts. A trip to the doctor confirmed I had the mumps-he only had to walk in the room and take one look at me to tell me what I had. He gave me pills-pain pills i think- and the pain was gone within 15 minutes, but I was still sick. It's something I wouldnt wish on any enemies.

    paige - 5th March 2005 21:04 - #

  131. I got one or 2 people who might help me get the mumps. I am quite serious about doing this and if anyone wants to help contact me. I can be contacted at ihateskewlboy@yahoo.com or lil_salad_fingers@hotmail.com feel free to instant message me at any time or to email me. I am usually invisable on yahoo but am usually online and I am off and on MSN all day.

    DAVID - 7th March 2005 00:13 - #

  132. Hi, i woke up sun morn, after a heavy nite out, lookin like a hamster.saw the doc sun morn, who afer shoutin at me 4 not havin a booster diagnosed mumps. Not such a gud look. Am at uni (wel had 2 come home) an missin a hel of a lot of work, and as if lifes not a bitch already its my birthday 2mrw. I dont feel sik, jus one side of my face is proper swollen, ne1 rekon im goin 2 feel more ill ova the next coupla days b4 i get beter? Or does the swellin get worse b4 it gets beter?cos i want 2 go bak 2 uni an celebrate a belated birthday b4 the weekend.n also how long am i/was i infected for, cos the lads livin next door (at uni) an my brothers here at home, r all shittin one. an iv bin locked in my room cos my mums not takin ne chances, so 2mrw i saw it all alone i my room singin happy birthday 2 my self............

    frankie - 7th March 2005 13:53 - #

  133. I am still trying to get this and I am quite serious anyone who wants to share thier mumps comtact me as soon as you can. I know the risk involved and really want to get and get over with my email is ihateskewlboy@yahoo.com or lil_salad_fingers@hotmail.com also feel free to instant message me on yahoo or msn.

    DAVID - 7th March 2005 15:39 - #

  134. I am still trying to get this and I am quite serious anyone who wants to share thier mumps comtact me as soon as you can. I know the risk involved and really want to get and get over with my email is ihateskewlboy@yahoo.com or lil_salad_fingers@hotmail.com also feel free to instant message me on yahoo or msn.

    DAVID - 7th March 2005 15:39 - #

  135. I am still trying to get this and I am quite serious anyone who wants to share thier mumps comtact me as soon as you can. I know the risk involved and really want to get and get over with my email is ihateskewlboy@yahoo.com or lil_salad_fingers@hotmail.com also feel free to instant message me on yahoo or msn.

    DAVID - 7th March 2005 15:39 - #

  136. sorry about the triple post my damn computer froze up.

    David - 7th March 2005 15:41 - #

  137. This MUMPS.COM website is great, It appears that mumps is the 'in thing' I wish it wasn't, to get this 'rare childhood disease' (yeah, RIGHT!!!!!) at the age of 35 is not good. I'm expecting to get rickets next! I'm on day 6.5 from onset of symptoms - swelling of face gone down a bit, but still feeling crap. I'm going to the doc's tomorrow to get a sick note for a few more days. No sign of volleyballs as yet (Sweet Jesus, please watch over my cobblers). BIG TIP - try and get someone to give you edited highlights of only the GOOD!?!? facts about mumps you can find on the internet. Anyway, get well soon and best of luck to all (especially the blokes) P.S. I'm sure, when i was a student, daytime TV wasn't this soul destroying!

    RICHARD - 7th March 2005 16:07 - #

  138. my brother caught mumps at uni, and came home for half-term. now ive got it too! i feel terrible and have had it for 4 days, yet i only had today off school! my mum says ill be fine, but she doesn't know how ill i feel

    lauren - 7th March 2005 17:23 - #

  139. Hey i only just found this site, im in day 5 now of the swelling, its still getin bigger:( Im at uni in Leeds, i heard about the mumps breakout here but i couldnt get the injection for medical reasons. the bad thing is i live in a house of 8 lazy people and it wasnt till day 2 that they all went for injections. did they leave it too late? is it possible that people can be around you and not catch mumps? i was around my girlfriend for a good 4 days before and i even kissed her on day1:( im so worried about her, i would hate to think i gave it to her, she hasnt had her injection yet:( Learnt alot of stuff from this thread, so good to be part of an elite community like this:)

    Lee - 7th March 2005 19:08 - #

  140. Your contagious for about 6 days BEFORE you get any symptoms to about 7 AFTER your symptoms START. The annoying thing is this virus can incubate for between 14 and 25 days - which means, sadly your poor girlfriend wont find out if she will get it for some time. Although 1 in 3 people dont show any symptoms atall - and the severity varies from person to person. As for how long it will last - differs with every person - just be prepared to take two weeks off. Its really frustrating being in and watching nothing but tripe on TV while you wait for the swelling to go away - I know I had it over a month ago! Rest up, take paracetemol and drink loads and loads of water. Get well soon everyone whose got it.

    Ditto - 7th March 2005 21:44 - #

  141. Your contagious for about 6 days BEFORE you get any symptoms to about 7 AFTER your symptoms START. The annoying thing is this virus can incubate for between 14 and 25 days - which means, sadly your poor girlfriend wont find out if she will get it for some time. Although 1 in 3 people dont show any symptoms atall - and the severity varies from person to person. As for how long it will last - differs with every person - just be prepared to take two weeks off. Its really frustrating being in and watching nothing but tripe on TV while you wait for the swelling to go away - I know I had it over a month ago! Rest up, take paracetemol and drink loads and loads of water. Get well soon everyone whose got it.

    Ditto - 7th March 2005 21:45 - #

  142. Hi its me again! The student from Lincoln Uni. Day 8 and the swelling is beginning to come down, however I have a feeling it may be about to start up on the other cheek! I hate the hamster look, i swear everyone notices, even from 10 feet away! I got university work to do and got a job placement to be finding, but its not helpful when your told to stay away from University! Today was the first day I've eaten without pain killers, so I am certainly on the mend on one side of my face! I kissed a girl about 20 days before the symptoms started, Would it be rude to ask her if she's ever had mumps?

    Dave - 7th March 2005 22:34 - #

  143. Hi i all thing u shud help dave out he reali need to get mumps other wise it will ruin his trip plz email him thnx love yall peace out homies Catch ya on da flip side xx

    Matt - 7th March 2005 23:12 - #

  144. Matt I am glad you understand my situation I am very much allergic to the MMR and have been told it probably would be best to get a natural case of the illness. I am going to be traveling towards the end of april and would rather have the mumps now rather than later. A case of the mumps during my trip would ruin my much needed rest and relaxation. I know all the risk and am ready to do it if someone is willing to help me get the mumps.

    DAVID - 7th March 2005 23:18 - #

  145. DAVID mate! Just go on your trip and don't let it worry you! Its abit of a kick in the teeth, when I am praying for my chipmunk features to fade away so I can start living life again, and theres you praying for it! I would gladly trade places as I'm sure thousands alike would! You don't appreciate good health until you get ill! So start appreciating it and go on your holiday! Dave (not to be confused with DAVID)

    Dave - 7th March 2005 23:30 - #

  146. Dave, I hope you feel better, and am sorry you are sick-----however I really want to do this and know the risk and know it is gonna suck I am not stupid, and I am not going to change my mind about doing this. If anyone wants to help me do this feel free to contact me at anytime either in email or instant message lil_salad_fingers@hotmail.com or ihateskewlboy@yahoo.com I know the risk and I know what to expect so all I need now is a person to give me the damn mumps :D I would MUCH rather have it now than before my hard earned and much deserved trip so I don't have to worry about being immune, and I will be very greatful to whoever decides to help me contract the mumps.

    DAVID - 7th March 2005 23:49 - #

  147. Well the mumps have reached Bradford!

    Woke up on Friday with an ear ache, but got told by my doctor it was just cus I'd had tonsillitis(which I had the week before(well I presume it was that!!)). So went to work anyway! Then woke up next day with an even more painfull ear and a huge swollen right cheek, but got told once again it was just another side affect of tonsillitis(cheers doc!). So once again went to work. Then heard about mumps goin round so went to see another doctor to finally get it confirmed. Mumps is wank!

    Oh and by the way I work in a night club in the west end of Bradford so if you went out this weekend just and got served by myself, you probably got a nice side order of mumps too(and I know a few girls definetly got it!hahah!!)!!!

    Dean - 8th March 2005 00:55 - #

  148. Does anyone know how long the testicular pain lasts? Ive had a huge swollen ball for about 2 or 3 days now and its probably the worst illness ive ever encounterd! My doctor said a "few days" but im scared theyre gonna be like it for ages!

    stephen - 8th March 2005 10:45 - #

  149. Hi Stephen, I have so much sympathy for you at this moment! I'm afraid I don't have the knowledge you were hoping for, however I am very interested at what stage of mumps you got these pains in your balls? How long after your cheek swelled? Thanx for your help! Dave

    Dave - 8th March 2005 11:46 - #

  150. it was just over a week after i initially got the cheek swelling. i thought i was better at that point! im just hoping it only affects one of them!

    Stephen - 8th March 2005 12:01 - #

  151. Stephen man thats worried me now, im on day 6 and my swelling is going down a tad and i feel fine, very little pain. saying that tho my balls are well heavy now and i know they are starting to swell. im now expecting to be in your kind of pain on day 8:( also does anyone know if its bad for mumps if you are smoking with it? it feels kinda painful but i kinda need to do it:)

    lee - 8th March 2005 13:04 - #

  152. You reckon if you got the more serious side effects of this you could sue the NHS for not letting you catch it at a younger age when its not serious??

    Dean - 8th March 2005 16:19 - #

  153. Hi, i was meant to be going travelling for 4 months on the 4th march but the day before i was due to leave i woke up with a massive swelling on my right side of my jaw/neck. Went to the hospital and the doctor told me i wouldnt beable to fly for at least 5 days! since then both sides of my face have swollen up and i look massive! I praying my swelling will go down soon so i can get on my way but it is sooooo painful every morning and the only way i can avoid looking like a freak is to wear a scarf really high up which my sister seems to think i may get confused with someone form al queda when i wear it like that! haha! Anyway if anyone has any tips on how to reduce swelling they will be appreciated, Sarah, Bradford

    Sarah - 8th March 2005 16:59 - #

  154. I am quite worried.I woke up on suday with a banging headache- only had 2 pints the night before. i was confused. woke up monday morning still had a headache whenever i moved my eyes or head! anyway this morning i woke up and i can feel a slight lump directly under my ear. its not too sore but i can feel it there and i can feel it when im opening my mouth especially. anyone else had this? i havent had a fever yet but i got the mmr a week ago. is it mumps? get well soon everone ill probably be joining the mumps crew tomorrow!

    Michael J - 8th March 2005 17:08 - #

  155. Any of you guys on the list willing to help me catch the mumps I have not had it yet and am still wanting to do this contact me ihateskewlboy@yahoo.com orlil_salad_fingers@hotmail.com I am quite ready to do this and just wanna get it over and done with. I am online right now if anyone wants to contact me.

    DAVID - 8th March 2005 17:13 - #

  156. that should of been lil_salad_fingers@hotmail.com LOL

    DAVID - 8th March 2005 17:14 - #

  157. I mentioned this earlier but I will mention it again I am willing to compensate ($$$$) whoever actually helps me catch the mumps. I am online quite a bit and my email has been posted so feel free to contact me via email or messenger If I am not online I will get back to you quite quickly. Iam sure the cash will come in handy for those who have missed work due to illness.

    DAVID - 9th March 2005 04:14 - #

  158. If u know anything that cn help my mate David get mumps then let him know because it makes sense to have it earlier on in your life than later on. He means he will pay as well. Thanks

    AD - 9th March 2005 23:08 - #

  159. Quite why anyone would want a giant testicle for a week is beyond me. ITS NOT FUN

    Stephen - 10th March 2005 14:07 - #

  160. Stephen, I am quite aware of all of the risk and still want to do this. I hope someone gets back to me and is willing to help because really I want to get it now before my trip, however if need be I will get it over with during my trip. ihateskewlboy@yahoo.com or lil_salad_fingers@hotmail.com I am online now if you wanna contact me.

    DAVID - 10th March 2005 17:07 - #

  161. Hey im on day 8 of the mumps, all swelling has gone down now:) however my right testicle has got a tad bigger and has been hurting now for 3 days, just waiting for it to blow up like stephen's. Not looking forward to it, i feel better but know its gunna take me at least another week. hell at least im pretty again. And David will you leave it, no ones gunna help you cos its stupid, its a dangerous virus with some people, no one would want it on their conscience.

    lee - 10th March 2005 19:29 - #

  162. Lee's right David - my friend got viral meningitis from the mumps - although a rare complication in CHILDREN - its less rare the older you are. He had to be hospitalised and was in a very serious condition. Please reconsider trying to catch the mumps - the cons far far far out weigh the pros.

    WOah - 10th March 2005 20:07 - #

  163. Well I have had a few replies of people who possibly will help me do this. We shall see if it works or not. I know all of the risk and I am going to continue trying until I do find a person to help me with this. Email me if you want to help my email is posted in other replies.

    DAVID - 12th March 2005 02:22 - #

  164. FUCK THE MUMPS. I DONT THINK I HAVE EVER BEEN MORE DEPRESSED OR SORE IN MY WHOLE FUCKING LIFE. FUCK IT ALL AND FUCK UNIVERSITY FOR GIVING IT TO ME. sorry for my language but i am so pissed off and i need somwere to vent my anger. chris 18.

    chris kelly - 13th March 2005 16:01 - #

  165. and to anyone thinking about helping david, knowingly passing on a disease, tahts right - mumps is a disease!, onto another person is a criminal offence the harshness of which depends on the symptoms the recipient aquires. what he wants mumps for is beyond me-chances are you wont even get it at any point of ure life.

    chris - 13th March 2005 16:08 - #

  166. day 12 of the mumps, my face has gone down but theres only one problem, for the last 6 days my testicles have been swollen but not very ,much. The problem is they refuse to go down or swell up more, so im kinda in a nasty limbo waiting for lots of pain to start. Having the mumps is a real pain in the bollocks:)

    lee - 14th March 2005 16:11 - #

  167. day 14 0f the mumps, not been many people posting, does that mean you are all better? lucky gits. well since my last msg my right testicle has swollen up to the size of a very big egg,i believe that not only will i have another 5 days to a week of this but my left testicle will soon follow. now in lots of pain, hard to walk, nearly black out in the mornings and fever is back. My testicles have now been swollen for 8 days, but it is only in the last 3 days that any more swelling happened, mumps just doesnt want to leave me alone. will msg in a few days, hope people find good info in these msgs.

    lee - 16th March 2005 18:57 - #

  168. left cheek just swollen up, got it off some tramp of a bird ata results party, bitch,probably miss my 18th bday party, totally gutted, if my bollocks swell up i'll go fuckin mad

    paul - 17th March 2005 17:21 - #

  169. day 16 of the mumps, this must be turning into some record, im 16 days into the mumps and in more pain than ever before, doctor told me today that it would be at least another week before my testicle stops being swollen and even then it may still hurt for a week or so, and not only that but if my other testicle swells, which it looks like doing i could be in this condition for up to 2 weeks. someone shoot me.And PAUL, some advice, when your swelling goes down dont drink any alcohol for at least a week, mumps seems to get set off by it.

    lee - 18th March 2005 10:35 - #

  170. Got mumps on Tuesday mornin (15th March) .. even tho i didnt no it was that until wednesday mornin wen one half of my face was swollen. Cant eat which is really annoyin me, I can drink orange without any pain. Ive been to the doctors and they said its either bacterial infection or mumps. But theres only one side of my face thats swollen. Im really upset about this, since me not bein able to eat will effect me deeply. Someone said water, Ill get some iburofen 2moro and hopefully be cured for next week.

    James - 18th March 2005 17:54 - #

  171. Respected Sir, It is informe you that i have a petient which have a some peroblem in case of Infertility.So he wan't to come in ur country then i did search on net,i m find your webside.He shell apply then i will give hime your clinic's addres.Please just u send answer that what you can do 4 us 4 that petient.Please send me an Email on my Email ( campexcap@yahoo.com )

    Dr.waqar ali malik - 18th March 2005 19:28 - #

  172. Respected Sir, It is informe you that i have a petient which have a some peroblem in case of Infertility.So he wan't to come in ur country then i did search on net,i m find your webside.He shell apply then i will give hime your clinic's addres.Please just u send answer that what you can do 4 us 4 that petient.Please send me an Email on my Email ( campexcap@yahoo.com )

    Dr.waqar ali malik - 18th March 2005 19:31 - #

  173. ive just been in hospital for 2 days, there was talk of keeping me in for a week and draining my testicle, decided to feign feeling better to get out of it. Im now on very strong pain killers, not much pain but the drugs are making me feel sick. DAY 18 of the mumps.

    lee - 20th March 2005 10:18 - #

  174. Sounds really bad Lee, mine stopped hurting after about 5 days and went down fully a few days later, feel a lot better now, hang in there man!

    Stephen - 20th March 2005 11:15 - #

  175. Well WHERE DO I START?!! Started feeling shitty on tuesdasy night and come out in some super sick RASH from head to toe, couldnt sleep till my nurofen had kicked in to stop the FACE ACHE, braved work with the help of nurofen on the wednesday booked in dr's for friday morn. When the nurofen had worn off and i had to have paracetomol instead i knew about it! By thursday looked like shrek so went to open surgery doctor said I had mumps, i cried my eyes out thinking that it would make my bfriend sterile but after reasearch have realised that this is unlikely. Apart from the first few days when I felt shitty without nurofen i feel absolutely fine apart from looking like shallow hal and growing considerably every day. When i walk up the stairs I can feel my face JIGGLE, think the other side is coming up now too! The worst part of the mumps for me has been SITTING IN ON A FRIDAY NIGHT while my friends had a party I cried, a lot!! I know it sounds bad but to be honest I wish I felt shittier cos then sitting in wouldnt be so bad! To make matters worse my dad iS over from australia I havent seen him for a year and wont for another and I am confined to the house for god knows how much longer!! The only question I have is HOW LONG i am contagious for cos the Dr only give me a sick note for a week and some websites say u r contagious till the swelling goes and others say after day 5 of the swelling you are not infectious, will end up topping myself if i have to spend another friday night sitting in on my lonesome!! Must say that reading this website has made me feel lots better or is it just cos the weekend is over? Anyway condolenses to fellow mumpers if i find out who has give it me I will rip their fuckin heads off! PS will soembody give fucking David mumps!!!! David the likeliness of you contracting mumps on your trip is so minute you are being so paranoid just leave it am tempted to give it you just to shut you up no offence mate!! How much money are we betting that David will post another message after me putting this on leaving his email addresses and saying he knows the risks?! MUMPS ARE THE SHITTEST THING ON THE EARTH. LONG LIVE PRINCESS FIONA, NOT!

    Alana - 20th March 2005 14:16 - #

  176. I have made the choice to get them and get them over with, and one way or another I will get them. People may not like my choice but thats OK and if this is really as dreadful as some say then perhaps best to help me and let me find out on my own that I am wrong. My email is in other threads and I am prepared for total hell if I get this, I am not stupid I understand that I am possibly going to be quite sick. As for Alana's post pretty much betting I would post my email address again as you can se there is no email address in this posting LOL

    DAVID - 20th March 2005 18:44 - #

  177. Am on day 6 now, and the second side is working its way up, is the second side QUICKER than the first? Or just the same, PLEASE WILL SOMEBODY LET ME KNOW, I cant take much more of this its driving me INSANE!! Thanks

    Shallow Hal - 21st March 2005 18:48 - #

  178. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE PLEASE CAN SOMEBODY ANSWER MY ABOVE EMAIL. IM MORE DESPERATE THAN DAVID!!!! THANKS

    Shallow Hal - 21st March 2005 19:15 - #

  179. Hal, perhaps you would be willing to help me out? email me.

    DAVID - 21st March 2005 19:45 - #

  180. ok im guessing you are on day 7 now, from my experience the 2nd side is abit quicker to go up and defo quicker to go down. if you have no improvement today i would say you will have the swelling for 9 or 10 days. you should start getin better any time now so dont worry too much. AND DAVID CAN I JUST SAY THAT YOU SPAMMING THE BOARD WITH YOUR REQUESTS ALL THE TIME IS DRIVING PEOPLE AWAY.

    Lee - 22nd March 2005 10:31 - #

  181. Thanks for replying, after yesterday I had the worst night ever with it. I got my first fever from it last night and then woke up at 3am this morning with a pain that I cant even begin to dsecribe coming from the golf ball that is my neck, I cried and rocked back and forth for about 30 mins until the nurofen kicked in and I fell back 2 sleep, still incredibly painful but bearable with the best creation to man, NUROFEN! How long did it take for urs from start to finish Lee? When do u suppose I will have a normal head again? Bearing in mind the 1st side looks to be going down and I give the second side only 1 more day till it reaches maximum BOMB head look?So say Thursday they both start going down how long will it take? Thanks again for replying! :( AND DAVID GET A FUCKIN LIFE!

    Shallow Hal - 22nd March 2005 10:48 - #

  182. Well im still on day 20 of the mumps. had a few problems and stuff. I think by friday no one will be able to tell you've had the mumps.The gland swelling goes down quite fast once it start, 3 days max i would say. I cant tell if you are a guy or girl but if you are a guy start keeping an eye on your balls. Mine didnt swell up till day 12 but there were warning signs from day 7 onwards. And dont worry too much about the fever, its a bitch but its doing you some good. Nothing i can say about the pain, it hurts like hell and will for a while, even on day 20 i get the occasional twitch of it.

    Lee - 22nd March 2005 16:20 - #

  183. Still in the most excrutiating pain I have evr felt in my life, I woke up again at 3am and had some nurofen, which are no longer working v.well, seems that now if i so much as have a mouthful of water or put anything in my mouth I end up writhing in pain for about 20 mins untill the painkillers take effect. I ended up pinching my leg as hard as I could for about 15 mins last nite to take the focus off the pain in my face!! Phoned the Dr this morning she has prescribed me some stronger painkiller said they will make me quite dopey, but that sounds good to me!! I hope the gland swelling does go down as quick as you say, although my first side still semms v.v. fat but not sore? 20 days, that must be horrible!!! Are you nearing the end yet??

    Shallow Hal - 23rd March 2005 10:03 - #

  184. My stepdaughter was diagnosed with mumps on Monday 21st, although we have not seen her in months her brother comes over every fortnight and is due this weekend to spend Easter weekend with us. I am 6 months pregnant and it is hard enough without having to cope with the mumps as well. My stepsons Dr has told his mother that if he showed no sign by this morning then he is clear, but we dont want to take the risk. My midwife said for the sake of a few days don't take the chance by the time he is due back over he will definately be in the clear. Am I being a bit too paranoid? Trying to explain to a 13 year old that Dr's can get it wrong some times and that we dont wish to take the risk so he cant come over this weekend when all he wants to do is spend time with his dad is very hard.

    maurina Harrison - 23rd March 2005 14:02 - #

  185. All i can say to that Maurina is that mumps can be in your system for up to 25 days before it comes out, you cant really predict it at all. I wouldnt risk it myself although i dont know how harmful mumps is to unborn babies, i know its not too bad with new born babies in the rare cases that they get it. Im on day 22 now, feeling alot better, no more pain killers for me, should be ok in a couple of days. However woke up today and my girlfriend was sporting the hamster look, shes gone to the doctor and i would say shes not best pleased with me for giving her the mumps:( And Shallow Hal i bet you are feeling abit better today?

    Lee - 24th March 2005 11:20 - #

  186. Yeah, I am thank god!!! Was sick this mrning though but i think that had something to do with not eating anything and taking painkillers cos just threw up some yellow liquid stuff, think it was just the tablets. After that I force fed myself some weetabix still felt a bit sick but have now managed to eat a bacon butty, took me about 40 mins but I did it!! So am feeling on the mend!! Still v. fat on my second sid