Which childhood infectious disease most significantly affects male fertility?

• A. Chickenpox
• B. Measles
• C. Mumps
• D. Scarlet fever

Answer: (C)

Some childhood infections have long-term effects on male fertility, and mumps is the one most associated with this risk. When mumps causes inflammation of the testes (orchitis), especially if both testes are involved, it can lead to testicular damage and impaired sperm production. This makes fertility in adulthood a concern, more so if the illness occurs after puberty. Unilateral orchitis is less likely to affect fertility, while bilateral involvement carries the bigger risk. In contrast, chickenpox, measles, and scarlet fever do not typically cause testicular inflammation or damage to spermatogenesis, so they’re not linked with infertility. Vaccination against mumps reduces this risk by preventing the orchitis component of the disease.