Cases of suspected mumps have struck school students in Ammanford.

The five known cases at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman are currently being investigated by Public Health Wales (PHW).

The news comes just weeks after over 80 infections were suspected throughout Swansea and Cardiff Universities.

The cases at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman has not been declared an outbreak by PHW.

Dr Brendan Mason, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control for Public Health Wales, said: “Mumps is a seasonal viral infection with most cases in the winter months. There have been more cases than usual for this time of year across Wales and Public Health Wales has provided advice to Health Boards.

"No outbreak has been declared at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, however all reported cases are followed up and if any specific advice is required then we will work with the school to provide this directly to parents and staff.

“The best way to protect yourself and your community from mumps is by having two doses of the MMR vaccine and we encourage people who are not vaccinated to contact their GP to arrange this.

“The MMR vaccine which protects against measles, mumps and rubella infections and is given as part of the routine childhood immunisation programme.”

Mumps is spread by coughs and sneezes and directly through contact with the saliva of an infectious person such as through sharing drinks or kissing. Symptoms include swelling on the angle of the jaw on one or both sides of the face.

Dr Mason reccommends that people with suspected mumps keep away from social gatherings for five days after their symptoms start, wash their hands frequently and especially after blowing their nose and don’t share items such as water bottles with others.

The facial swelling may be preceded by several days of general symptoms such as fever, headache, tiredness, muscle aches, and loss of appetite.

Anyone with these symptoms is advised to see their GP or family doctor and stay away from school or work until five days after the start of the swelling when they are no longer infectious.

PHW said investigations are continuing and they will continue to monitor the situation.