Mumps reported at James Madison University

HARRISONBURG, Virginia (AP):

Mumps has been reported at another higher-education institution in Virginia.

James Madison University said one student was treated for the contagious viral infection. A posting on the school's website advises students to take precautions and to stay home if they are ill to avoid spreading the virus.

The University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University issued similar advisories last month after several cases of mumps were confirmed on their campuses.

Mumps is spread through droplets of fluid, usually when someone coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include headache, fever and swollen or tender salivary glands.

The virus thrives on college and university campuses, where a large number of people live in close quarters and share drinks, lip balm or other items, said Dr Doug Larsen, director of the Central Shenandoah Health District.

Statewide, there have been 66 mumps cases either confirmed or suspected since the beginning of March, the Virginia Department of Health reported.