Detection of Mumps Virus in Parotid Gland Swabs of Suspected Mumps Cases in Kaduna State

Mumps is a viral parotitis caused by mumps virus, a paramyxovirus transmitted through respiratory droplets. Although partially controlled by measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination, outbreaks continue to occur in settings with suboptimal vaccine coverage, including northern Nigerian states. This study aims to confirm the presence of mumps virus in parotid gland swabs collected from suspected mumps cases presenting at primary and secondary health facilities in Kaduna State, North West Nigeria. A prospective laboratory-based study will recruit 150 patients presenting with acute parotitis of suspected viral aetiology over 12 months. Paired parotid swab and serum samples will be collected within five days of symptom onset. Real-time RT-PCR targeting the SH gene of mumps virus will be performed on swab samples, while serum will be tested for mumps IgM and IgG by ELISA. MMR vaccination history will be verified through immunisation cards. Data will be analysed to determine the proportion of parotitis cases attributable to mumps virus, stratified by vaccination status and age. The absence of MMR vaccine from Nigeria's routine immunisation schedule until 2022 means a substantial proportion of the paediatric and adolescent population remains susceptible. Findings will quantify the current mumps diagnostic burden in Kaduna State and provide evidence to evaluate the early impact of MMR introduction. Keywords: mumps virus, parotitis, diagnosis, Kaduna State, MMR vaccination