Mumps outbreak

Surge in Auckland mumps cases not seen in decades

The outbreak has followed the All Blacks on their end of year tour with four All Blacks, one by one, taken down in as many weeks.

Jack Goodhue, Rieko Ioane and Ardie Savea all contracted the infectious viral disease, and now lock Luke Romano.

“Luke Romano's in semi-quarantine, because he's got them as well, so I think that might be four cases,” says Coach Steve Hansen. “And all of them have been vaccinated.”

It follows a huge spike in mumps cases in Auckland this year - now nearing 900 - numbers not seen in decades.

Warning in Tonga after mumps outbreak

The hospital's medical superintendent, Lisiate 'Ulufonua, said mumps are contagious and typically contracted through saliva and close personal contact.

The initial symptoms include fever, muscle pain and headache and complications could include brain infections and deafness.

Radio Tonga reported Dr. 'Ulufonua urging the public to practise good hygiene.

 

     

Marshalls deals with mumps outbreak

The outbreak occurred over the last few months and by mid-week, the Ministry of Health reported over 250 cases.

The Ministry is tracking cases, with 17 schools around Majuro reporting students having mumps.

The acute viral disease commonly affects children and is spread from person to person by coughing and sneezing.

Our correspondent Giff Johnson said people who contract mumps were being urged to stay home.