NORTH Kent has seen a sharp rise in the number of mumps cases, according to the Kent Health Protection Unit.

Since the beginning of the year, 38 cases of the disease have been reported in Dartford and 28 cases in Gravesham.

The unit has said that the increase in cases is arising from teenagers and young people aged 15 years and over, who were not given the MMR jab as children and this has resulted in the sudden outbreak.

In 2004 just two cases of mumps were recorded in Dartford and four in Gravesham.

In 2003 there was only one case in Dartford and five in Gravesend, and in 2002 just two cases in Dartford and only one case in Gravesend were recorded.

Dr Mathi Chandrakuma, director, said: "The sufferers are aged 15 years and upwards and we are getting this increase almost like an outbreak."

The mumps infection lasts approximately seven to 10 days and symptoms can include painful or swollen glands in the cheeks, neck and jaw, fever, headache, abdominal pain and loss of appetite.

Dr Chandrakuma is urging young people who know they have not had the vaccination to seek it.

He said: "Young people aged between 16 and 24 should go to the doctor and get their vaccination."