Whistler residents urged to get vaccinated after eight mumps cases reported

WHISTLER, B.C. – Eight cases of mumps have been reported in young adults in Whistler, B.C., and Vancouver Coastal Health is urging residents to check their vaccination records.

The highly contagious viral infection is spread through coughing, sneezing or sharing cups or utensils touched by saliva or mucus.

The health authority says anyone who is uncertain about their vaccination status should get immunized as soon as possible.

A vaccination clinic is being held at the Whistler Public Health office between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Friday, with another scheduled for Monday between 12 and 4 p.m.

Mumps causes fever and is often linked to swelling of the salivary glands located below the jaw and ears and under the tongue.

It can also lead to swelling of the testes in males and swelling of the ovaries in women while other complications can include meningitis or deafness.