Mumps primarily affects which gland in the body?

Mumps primarily affects which gland in the body?

• A. Thyroid gland
• B. Salivary gland
• C. Adrenal gland
• D. Pituitary gland

Answer: (B)

Mumps is a viral infection that primarily targets the salivary glands, specifically the parotid glands, which are located near the jaw. This causes inflammation and swelling, leading to the characteristic symptoms associated with mumps, such as swollen cheeks and jaw pain. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and typically affects children, although unvaccinated individuals of any age can be susceptible. Understanding the specific relationship between mumps and the salivary glands is crucial for recognizing its symptoms and implementing preventive measures, such as vaccination, to avoid outbreaks.

Mumps is a viral infection that primarily targets the salivary glands, specifically the parotid glands, which are located near the jaw. This causes inflammation and swelling, leading to the characteristic symptoms associated with mumps, such as swollen cheeks and jaw pain. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and typically affects children, although unvaccinated individuals of any age can be susceptible. Understanding the specific relationship between mumps and the salivary glands is crucial for recognizing its symptoms and implementing preventive measures, such as vaccination, to avoid outbreaks.