An outbreak of the mumps that originated earlier this year is spreading quickly in Canada and has infected more than 200 people, local media reported Saturday.

The disease, which originated in eastern Nova Scotia province and has infected 203 people there, has spread to central provinces, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) said.

Ontario is reporting three confirmed cases with five other suspected cases under investigation. New Brunswick also has reported 34 cases and Prince Edward Island had one confirmed case.

Nova Scotia medical officials are calling on Ottawa's Public Health Agency for a national strategy to deal with the outbreaks.

Catching the mumps can have serious consequences. The disease, which causes swollen and tender glands and other flu-like symptoms, can lead to sterility, deafness and viral meningitis.

It is spread by coughing, sneezing, sharing drinks and food, and kissing, and can be contagious for about seven days before symptoms appear, and up to nine days after.

Source: Xinhua