Big Island mumps cases continue to increase

The state Department of Health’s weekly mumps update Thursday showed 24 Big Island mumps cases so far this year.

The highly contagious virus has hit 419 people of various ages statewide this year, the DOH reported. Hawaii County numbers continue to climb.

Those with confirmed or suspected mumps should “self-isolate” and avoid exposing others for nine days after salivary glands swell.

Also, unvaccinated people exposed to mumps “should not attend school, work or travel from day 12 through day 25 after exposure.”