Two local high schools and ISU confirm cases of mumps

Posted on September 18, 2015

*Normal West and University High have reported more than three cases of mumps. (WJBC/Eric Stock)*

By Andy Dahn

BLOOMINGTON – The community-wide mumps outbreak continues to grow in McLean County, and now the McLean County Health Department has added two area high schools and ISU to the list of sites with increased mumps activity.

Both Normal West High School, University High School, Illinois State University now have three or more confirmed cases of mumps linked to their campuses, according to the Health Department. At both schools, letters are being sent to all students, faculty, and staff who have been identified as close contacts to the individuals with mumps.

As of Sept. 18, test results have confirmed 21 positive mumps cases in McLean County, with additional tests pending. Individuals with confirmed mumps virus tests remain in the 15 to 54 age range, with the biggest concentration those between the ages of 15 and 20.

The McLean County Health Department will continue to monitor this situation and work together with school and healthcare providers in the community, as well as the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Residents experiencing symptoms of mumps are strongly encouraged to isolate from other people and contact their healthcare provider to be tested for mumps if they develop swollen salivary glands, ovaries, or testicles.

Andy Dahn can be reached at [email protected].

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