North Carolina's health agency is urging people to make sure their vaccinations are up to date after several confirmed mumps cases at two private universities.
The state Department of Health and Human Services says there have been seven confirmed cases combined at Elon University and High Point University as of Thursday. State and local public health workers are responding in part by vaccinating susceptible groups on campus.
Mumps is a contagious virus causing swollen glands, puffy cheeks and fever, and can lead to more serious complications. DHHS says anyone with confirmed or suspected mumps needs to stay home and limit personal contact for five days, or until mumps is ruled out.
The agency says vaccinations are the most effective way to prevent mumps or limit complications should mumps still occur.