What is the primary mode of transmission of mumps?

Mumps is caused by the Mumps virus, a member of the Paramyxovirus family (genus Rubulavirus). It is transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected saliva/respiratory secretions. The virus infects the upper respiratory tract and then spreads via viremia to the parotid glands (causing bilateral parotitis), testes (orchitis), ovaries, meninges, and pancreas. Incubation period is 16-18 days. The MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine provides effective protection. Dental relevance: mumps causes bilateral parotid gland swelling, which may be mistaken for other conditions.