Rubella German Measles, although it is a common childhood illness it is fairly mild in children, the danger is that of it passing through the bloodstream of a pregnant woman is quite high as it can infect her growing foetus. It can cause multiple defects in the unborn child (Congenital Rubella Syndrome).

Rubella (German Measles) is a viral infection that attacks the lymph nodes and the skin. The virus enters the respiratory tract from droplet nuclei and attacks the lymphatic system, usually when people who are already infected and in close proximity to you cough or sneeze.

The rash associated with Rubella (German Measles) is called the maculopapular rash and is usually followed by the enlargement of the posterior occipitocervical lymph nodes.

The maculopapules which are small and red/pink always start on the face and neck and spread downwards to the body and limbs. Usually after a week the rash has started to fade.

Signs and Symptoms

• Slight fever (approx. 38oC)
• Muscle aches
• Stiffness in the neck
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Maculopapules (slight red rashes) will appear on the child's head and body after a couple of days
• Swollen neck lymph glands

Incubation Period

The incubation period for Rubella (German Measles) is 14 - 21 Days.

Treatment

Rubella (German Measles)is common in children and you should contact your childs health centre for helpful advice although usually the child recovers within a week.

Ensure that your child does not have contact with any pregnant women.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations against Rubella are advisable and they should be administered to children between 12 and 15 months.

Vaccinations against Rubella (German Measles) are readily available at your local health centres.

The vaccinations are excellent, but are considered more effective and less traumatic when combined with the Measles and Mumps (MMR).

If you are planning to have a baby and have not had vaccinations for Rubella (German Measles) then it is important that you consider having them before you concieve.