Three DCU students were diagnosed with the mumps over the last three weeks.
A letter was issued to DCU by the HSE warning of the severity of the viral disease and urging anyone who had not received two doses of the MMR vaccines to see a doctor for vaccination.
“The most effective way that students can protect themselves is to ensure that they have had their MMR vaccine,” said the Head of the Student Health Centre, Jessie Byrne. “Their family GP should have record of these,” she said.
“It is easily spread in the student body because there are such a high number of young people living and collaborating in close proximity,” said Byrne.
“As mumps is a viral illness it is still possible to get a milder dose even if you have had the vaccine.”
Symptoms of the mumps include fever, headache and swelling of cheek and jaw. People are infectious for up to 7 days before symptoms develop and for 5 days after symptoms.
Mumps can lead to complications including meningitis, deafness, inflammation of the testicles or ovaries, and on rare occasion, sterility.
Byrne said that so far the situation seems to be under control. The three students were advised to stay at home and rest for the week.
Emily Sheahan
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