Complications of Mumps
Mumps can occasionally cause complications, especially in adults.
Complications can include:
- inflammation of the testicles (orchitis); this may lead to a decrease in testicular size (testicular atrophy)
- inflammation of the ovaries (oophoritis) and/or breast tissue (mastitis)
- inflammation in the pancreas (pancreatitis)
- inflammation of the brain (encephalitis)
- inflammation of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord (meningitis)
- deafness
Inflammation of the testicles could lead to temporary sterility or decrease fertility in men, but no studies have assessed if it results in permanent infertility.
- Vaccine (Shot) for Mumps
- Complications for Healthcare Providers
- Mumps: Questions and Answers [4 pages]
Ready-to-print version of one of the CDC-reviewed Q&A materials located on Immunization Action Coalition’s website.