Mumps occurring in Hamilton, public health officials confirm

Mumps is showing up in Hamilton.

City public health officials said they've confirmed "fewer than five" cases so far, but they are on alert in the wake of an outbreak in Toronto.

Anyone born later than 1970 should have received at least one dose of mumps-containing vaccine (usually delivered as MMR: measles, mumps, rubella or MMRV: measles, mumps, rubella and varicella).

Kids, teens, healthcare workers and military personnel should receive two doses.

"Parents of children attending school are reminded that two doses of mumps vaccine are required under the Immunization for School Pupils Act," the officials said in a press release.

• There are now 37 confirmed cases of mumps in the city: Toronto Public Health

Mumps is a viral infection that spreads throughsaliva or mucus contact. It often comes with pain and swelling in the neck and jaw.It can be spread through coughing, sneezing, kissingor sharing drinks and utensils.

Toronto saw an average offive cases a year between 1997 and 2009.

Public health says to call your doctor or visit a walk-in clinic if you think you or your child has mumps.

More on mumps at the city's website.