Mumps make it to P.E.I.

An outbreak of mumps that's been making its way through the Maritimes has reached Prince Edward Island.

An outbreak started in Halifax in February, and spread to Dalhousie University earlier this month.

There have also been cases in Saint John and Fredericton, but P.E.I.'s chief health officer Lamont Sweet told CBC News the Island cases appear to be connected to Dalhousie.

"We have five people who have either confirmed mumps, one confirmed case gone back to Nova Scotia, and four others who are probable cases," said Sweet.

"Most would be at the same university there. Most of our contacts have got a connection, either going to Dalhousie University or having been at functions in Halifax or at the university."

He said students travelling home to the Island from university are likely spreading the illness. It can be spread by coughing and sneezing as well as sharing food, drinks and cigarettes.