Since January 2006, a mumps outbreak has occurred in Iowa. Nearly half the cases are among college students; of whom, 65% have documentation of two doses of MMR vaccine. Proper specimen collection and testing is critical to identification of cases. In order to assist in the epidemiologic investigation please collect the following specimens and send to the University Hygienic Laboratory:

Lab Diagnosis of Mumps

Ordering Mumps Kits

Effective May 4, 2006 (Urine specimens and convalescent sera are no longer needed.)

1. Oral/buccal swab for mumps PCR: Collect fluid by swabbing the buccal cavity (the space between the cheek and teeth). The parotid duct drains in this space near the upper molars.

   1. Massage the parotid gland area just in front of the ear and near the angle of the jaw for 30 seconds prior to collecting secretions on the swab.
   2. a.Swab the area between the cheek and gum by sweeping the swab near the upper molar to the lower molar area.
   3. a.Place the swab in M4 viral transport medium and leave the swab in the medium. Store and ship cold.

2. Urine for virus culture testing is no longer performed. Because of the stage of the outbreak we are now in, it has been determined that the urine specimen is no longer valuable.

3. Acute sera for IgM antibody testing. Acute blood specimens need to be collected in 3 to 5 days after onset of symptoms. Convalescent blood specimens are no longer recommended and will not be tested.

For oral/buccal swabs and urine:

Non-Respiratory Test Request Form

Non-Respiratory Collection Instructions

For acute and convalescent sera:

Serology Test Request Form

Serology Collection Instructions

Positive Mumps Specimens for Current Season