What is the recommended vaccination to prevent mumps?

The recommended vaccination to prevent mumps is the MMR vaccine. This vaccine protects against three viral diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. Mumps is a contagious viral infection characterized by fever, swelling of the salivary glands, and possible complications such as orchitis or meningitis.

The MMR vaccine is typically administered in two doses, with the first dose given between 12 to 15 months of age and the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age, although it can be given earlier in certain situations. This vaccination has been instrumental in significantly reducing the incidence of mumps in populations where it is widely used, leading to herd immunity and protection for those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

Other vaccines, such as DTaP, Hib, and the Polio vaccine, target different diseases: DTaP protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis; Hib protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b infections; and the Polio vaccine prevents poliomyelitis. These vaccines do not offer protection against mumps, which is why the MMR vaccination is the appropriate choice for preventing this specific viral infection.