Mumps Outbreak Reported On Lewis University's Romeoville Campus

ROMEOVILLE, IL — The Will County Health Department says it is monitoring a mumps outbreak at the Romeoville campus of Lewis University. So far, one case is confirmed and seven others are probable.

Mumps is a viral infection of the salivary glands near the ears, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms include swelling of the face, pain while chewing or swallowing, fever, headache and fatigue. It is highly contagious.

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Lewis University is mandating all faculty and staff provide proof of their immunizations by Monday, December 10. Students are already required to have immunization records on file, officials said, and they don't need to resubmit them.

Out of health and safety concerns, officials said, several previously scheduled events have been canceled or postponed.

They include:

• College of Arts & Sciences Senior Honors Convocation on December 4, 2018
• Men's and Women's Basketball games on December 4, 2018
• College of Education Recognition Award Ceremony on December 5, 2018
• Student Advising and Registration Orientation (SOAR) on December 5, 2018
• Senior Capstone Exhibition and December 6 Reception from December 6-17, 2018
• 14th Annual Heritage Theatre Company (HTC) Christmas Spectacular December 6 – 8, 2018
• Wine & Cheese Reception on December 7, 2018
• 8 p.m. Mass on Sunday, December 9 2018

All classes and final exams will be held as scheduled.

If employees working on the Romeoville campus don't submit immunization records or get a booster shot by Monday, they will be forced to use paid time off, the university said.

Officials warned that while the vaccine is the best prevention, it is not 100 percent effective, so if you feel ill or experience any of the symptoms listed above, contact your health care provider immediately.

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