What is the standard treatment for mumps?

• A. Supportive care and anti-inflammatory therapy
• B. Broad-spectrum antibiotics
• C. Antiviral therapy with acyclovir
• D. Surgical drainage of the parotid

Answer: (A)

Mumps is caused by a virus, so the aim of treatment is to relieve symptoms and support the body's recovery rather than to attack the infection itself. The best approach focuses on supportive care: adequate fluids, rest, and medications to reduce fever and pain, such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs, which also help lessen glandular swelling. There is no proven antiviral that shortens mumps, and antibiotics are not indicated because the illness is not bacterial. Antiviral therapy with agents like acyclovir is not used for mumps, and surgical drainage of the parotid gland is not needed unless there is a separate abscess or another non-viral condition. Prevention is via vaccination (MMR) to reduce risk and spread.