WASHINGTON — Five people are suspected of having mumps after a potential case was reported at American University last week.

The D.C. Department of Health notified the university of the five suspected cases of mumps, American University Medical Director Dr. David Reitman said in a news release Tuesday. All affected students were isolated for five days after their initial symptoms, in accordance with department of health guidelines, Reitman said.

On Friday, Reitman said the D.C. Department of Health notified the university of the suspected case and had contacted the affected students.

On Tuesday, Reitman again said the D.C. Health Department is trying to identify any other students who may be at direct risk of contracting the illness.

Mumps is usually spread through contact with saliva, so the university recommends that people do not share drinks, food or eating utensils with others over the next few months.

“As with many infectious illnesses, frequent hand washing is also an important way to prevent it from spreading. The virus typically goes away on its own, however, and patients fully recover,” the release said.

If you have mumps symptoms, contact the Student Health Center at 202-885-3380 or via email shc@american.edu.