What is the best practice for managing a child with mumps?

The best practice for managing a child with mumps involves isolation until the swelling disappears. Mumps is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the salivary glands, leading to symptoms such as swelling, fever, and pain. Isolating the child helps to prevent the spread of the virus to others, as it is transmitted through respiratory droplets.

While providing pain relief with over-the-counter medications is important in managing discomfort associated with mumps, it does not address the contagious nature of the illness. Immediate hospitalization is typically reserved for severe cases or complications, which are not common for most mumps cases. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like mumps and are not a recommended treatment option. Thus, isolation until the swelling has subsided is the most effective approach to managing the child’s health while also protecting public health.