Canucks report mumps diagnosis
Posted February 24, 2017 1:54 pm.
Last Updated February 27, 2017 9:32 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – The Vancouver Canucks confirmed today that several players have presented with symptoms of mumps with one confirmed diagnosis.
Players presenting symptoms are immediately being tested and quarantined in isolation for a five-day period.
Don’t worry about about catching mumps while you’re out and about or if you visit a Canucks game.
Dr. Monika Naus with the BC Centre for Disease Control says the virus is only transferred through direct contact with infect saliva, so just avoid kissing or sharing food and drinks with a sick person.
“It’s not airborne transmission, it’s considered dropless contact, so you have to be close to an individual with mumps in order to get it.”
Symptoms include trouble breathing, a sore throat and swelling of the face.
People older than 20-years-old could also be more at risk because of lifestyle and because BC didn’t start giving a second mumps booster shot until 1996.
In a release from the team:
In keeping with BC Centre of Disease Control and Vancouver Coastal Health guidelines, players presenting symptoms are immediately being tested and quarantined in isolation for a five-day period from the onset of symptoms or until test results prove negative. Vaccines are also being administered to minimize further risk of contraction along with universal preventative hygiene measures as recommended by Vancouver Coastal Health including disinfecting all dressing room areas.
“We’re taking this very seriously given how easily mumps can spread,” said Canucks General Manager, Jim Benning. “At this point Troy Stecher is the only player with a confirmed test result. Chris Tanev, Nikita Tryamkin, Mike Chaput and Markus Granlund have each presented symptoms. We’ll continue to follow all protocols in accordance with Vancouver Coastal Health guidelines in order to prevent further infection.”
Vancouver Coastal Health authorities will be on hand at Rogers Arena today to screen players and staff and immunize those who need it.
Mumps is a virus that causes swollen and tender glands, particularly the salivary gland. It also causes flu-like symptoms such as fever and body aches. Mumps is spread through respiratory droplets of saliva and mucus from the nose, mouth and throat and can be present in a person for up to two weeks before symptoms arise.
Anyone who has reason to believe they present symptoms of mumps are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or public health office for assistance.
