Mumps resurgence in India in the decade 2014-2023: A Trend and Geospatial Analysis

Abstract Background Mumps, caused by the paramyxovirus, primarily affects children and adolescents and presents with parotiditis. Complications such as orchitis and meningitis can occur, especially in young adult males and vaccination reduces complications. Global mumps cases surged in the past decade, including regions like North and South America, Australia, and Iran. In India, a recent surge in mumps cases was reported in 2023. The current analysis was performed to assess the burden and trend of mumps in India over the last decade and geographical variations in its burden across India. Methods Using the weekly outbreak reports of Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme(IDSP) for the period of 2014 to 2023, number of mumps cases and outbreaks in India were plotted to see the trend of mumps in past 10 years. State wise spatial distribution of the number of mumps cases and outbreaks were also performed using QGIS for 2023 to ascertain geographical variation in mumps burden across India. Results Distinct peaks and troughs in mumps cases were observed, with notable increases in 2015, 2016, and 2019. Absence of reported cases in 2021 and a resurgence in 2023 were noted. Spatial analysis identified hot spots and clusters, indicating hyperendemic areas. State-wise wide variations were evident, with some states reported disproportionately higher number of outbreaks like Jammu and Kashmir. The impact of COVID-19 on mumps incidence was seen, with a decrease in 2020 and an increase in 2023. Conclusion Total number of mumps outbreaks and cases were reported to be highest in 2023 which is alarming and emphasizes the need for inclusion of mumps containing vaccine in form of MMR vaccine in the Universal immunization Programme (UIP) of India along with strengthening the mumps surveillance. These findings also underscore the importance of state-specific analyses and evidence-based interventions to address mumps outbreaks effectively in India.