NYC urges some to get mumps vaccine

NEW YORK, Feb. 9 (UPI) -- New York City health officials are encouraging young adults, especially males, in the Jewish communities in Brooklyn to get vaccinated for mumps.

As of Feb. 8, the city health department had confirmed 909 cases of mumps and was investigating 344 more. Most cases have occurred in males and an increasing number have been in adults ages 18-30. Complications from mumps can include viral meningitis, hearing loss and reproductive problems for men.

"Vaccination against mumps is important for your health, your family's health and your community's health," Dr. Jane R. Zucker, assistant commissioner for immunization, said in a statement.

"Mumps can lead to serious complications in people who are not vaccinated, especially adults. If you have not been vaccinated against the mumps, or do not remember if you have received the protective vaccine, get vaccinated."

Children should receive a measles-mumps-rubella vaccine on or after their first birthday, followed by a second dose at 4-6 years of age.

Anyone who has received two doses of measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is much less likely to develop mumps, but many adults do not remember their vaccination history and do not have records.

Adults who are unsure of their vaccination history should get vaccinated, health officials advise.