Menaka V. Narayanan

1 INTRODUCTION Proper nutrition is essential for the growth and development of children. Poor nutrition during early years increases the risk of early death and negatively impacts motor, cognitive and behavioural development, leading to detrimental long-term effects like lower educational achievement, health and productivity (Martorell, 1999).

Harvard University Health Services confirmed there were five active mumps cases on campus as of Tuesday, up from four when the most recent outbreak was announced nearly two weeks ago. Yale also reported potential cases of the virus at the university earlier this week. Harvard’s current outbreak is the second for mumps on campus this calendar year.

As the academic year draws to a close, the number of mumps cases on Harvard’s campus continues to rise, with 58 confirmed cases as of Wednesday. Students experiencing the mumps may not be able to participate in end-of-year Commencement activities, and those with symptoms of the disease have been encouraged by the Harvard Summer School Study Abroad Office to refrain from traveling. Harvard University Health Services Director Paul J.