Outbreak of Mumps in New Jersey Linked to Night Clubs

An outbreak of mumps in New Jersey is being linked to a Jersey shore nightclub, according to CNN.

The Monmouth County Health Department issued a statement on Thursday saying it is investigating 22 "probable cases" of the contagious disease that is spread through saliva. "Most mumps transmission likely occurs before the salivary glands begin to swell and within the five days after the swelling begins," the CDC says on its website.

Officials say 21 of those infected are adults who had recently been at D'Jais Bar & Grill in Belmar, a place that claims on its website that it is "one of Jersey shore's most talked about venues." CNN was unable to reach D'Jais for comment.

"The medical professionals advised these individuals to be on bed rest, increase their fluid intake and take steps to reduce their fever," the county's public health coordinator Michael Meddis said in a statement. 

It was not immediately clear how the one sick person not connected to D'Jais-a child --- became infected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says on its website that mumps "typically starts with a few days fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness and loss of appetite.

After that, symptoms include salivary gland swelling. There is no specific cure or treatment for the disease. The CDC says most people with mumps may recover fully although some may experience some complications.

A vaccine against measles, mumps and rubella, known as the MMR vaccine, can reduce the risk of infection by up to 88 percent, according to the CDC. The vaccine is given in two doses - one in babies 12 to 15 months old and one in children ages 4 to 6.

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