The Directorate of Health
Mumps group infection in the capital area of Iceland
18th February 2024
In the last two weeks, there have been four cases of mumps reported in the capital area, involving two unvaccinated adults and two vaccinated children who had close contact with each other.
Mumps symptoms typically emerge around three weeks after infection. Additional cases are anticipated in the coming days. Local health centers are now arranging vaccinations for those close to the exposed.
Mumps is a highly contagious viral infection, more commonly affecting children than adults. It spreads through close contact via droplets from coughing or sneezing and contact with contaminated surfaces. While most cases of mumps resolve on their own, the infection can lead to serious complications, particularly in adolescents and adults. Typically, individuals only contract mumps once.
There is no specific treatment for mumps and vaccination is the most effective preventive measure. In Iceland, the MMR vaccine, which includes protection against measles, mumps, and rubella, is administered at 18 months and 12 years of age. Two doses of the vaccine offer approximately 90% protection against mumps and 97% protection against measles.
Since the introduction of mumps vaccination in 1989*, the disease has been nearly eradicated in Iceland, although outbreaks did occur in 2005–2006 and 2015–2016. In recent years, only a few cases have been reported annually, with a single case in 2020 being the most recent.
Instances like the current group infection underscore the importance of vaccination and serve as a reminder that outbreaks can still occur if vaccination rates fall below target levels.
Those born after 1980 who believe they have been in close contact with an individual infected with mumps, are unvaccinated, and have not previously had mumps can seek advice on vaccination from their healthcare provider via the online chat Heilsuvera or phone 1700.
Individuals already exposed to mumps recently, whether at home, school, or work, should not immediately seek vaccination but instead adhere to quarantine measures and avoid large gatherings for three weeks following exposure. Further guidance on infection prevention can be found on the Directorate of Health website.
Please note that electronic vaccination registration commenced between 2002 and 2004, but information is not centrally recorded and can only be accessed by individuals themselves.
The Chief Epidemiologist
*Vaccination against measles was however started earlier, or from 1976 (with a monovalent vaccine).