Mumps orthorubulavirus (Mumps virus) (MuV)

Mumps orthorubulavirus, commonly known as the mumps virus, is an enveloped, negative-sense single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family (UniProt, 2024). It is the causative agent of mumps, a highly contagious disease characterized by the painful swelling of the parotid glands, though it can also lead to severe complications such as orchitis, meningitis, and permanent deafness (StatPearls, 2023). The virion contains several key antigens, most notably the Hemagglutinin-Neuraminidase (HN) and Fusion (F) glycoproteins, which are critical for viral attachment and entry into host cells (PubMed, 2021). These surface proteins serve as the primary targets for the host's neutralizing antibody response following infection or vaccination. Currently, the virus is primarily managed through preventative vaccination using live-attenuated strains, such as the Jeryl Lynn strain, which are typically administered as part of the MMR or MMRV vaccines (CDC, 2023). These vaccines elicit a robust immune response against the whole virion and its constituent antigens, providing long-term protection against infection. While there are no specific small-molecule antivirals widely approved for mumps, the virus remains a significant target for public health surveillance and ongoing vaccine development (WHO, 2023).

Other names

Mumps virusMuVParamyxovirus mumpsMumps virus whole virionMumps virus antigens

Induction of active immunity through the production of neutralizing antibodies (primarily targeting the Hemagglutinin-Neuraminidase and Fusion glycoproteins) and the activation of cell-mediated immune responses to prevent viral infection and systemic spread.