The McLean County Health Department says the mumps virus has returned to the Bloomington Normal area. Spokeswoman Lisa Slater says there are so far four cases reported ranging in age from six to 37. There are no obvious links among the cases. Slater says to be labeled an outbreak, there must be three related cases.
Some months ago, most major schools in the Bloomington Normal community had outbreaks with dozens of cases reported overall. Since then the cluster subsided. But, the virus is quite contagious and Slater says more could be reported.
But, the Health Department is urging people to again take preventative steps to avoid infection, even if they have been fully vaccinated. These include avoiding close contact with sick people, avoid sharing drinks, food, and eating utensils, and to wash your hands frequently.
Mumps is a virus spread through droplets of saliva or mucus when people cough, sneeze, or talk.
