Page 29 - (DK) Home Doctor: Providing practical advice on home treatments

COMMON CONDITIONS: INFECTIOUS DISEASES 27

Rubella

Rubella (German measles) is a contagious viral illness that is
WARNING
now uncommon due to immunization. Usually, it causes little
more than a mild red rash that spreads from the face to the body. Contact your doctor immediately if:
Often there are no symptoms. A child may start with a mild fever, ● You are pregnant and suspect
you may have been in contact with
swollen glands, and a runny nose 2–3 weeks after contact with
someone who has rubella
the infection. Adults may also have a headache and joint pain.
The main risk of rubella is that it can harm the fetus if a woman
contracts the virus in pregnancy, particularly in the early months.

See your doctor first
DRUG REMEDIES
Arrange to see your doctor if you suspect
that you have rubella. Check when to attend Analgesics will help bring down a fever and
the office, because of the risk of infecting relieve headache and joint pain.
a woman who is pregnant.
● For a child, give acetaminophen (see p.177) or
ibuprofen (see p.185). Make sure you ask your
pharmacist to recommend a product for your child.
What you can do yourself ● Adults can take acetaminophen (see p.177) or
ibuprofen (see p.185).
When there are symptoms, they are often so mild
they need little or no treatment. The rash does not
itch and disappears within a few days.
PREVENTION
● Take an analgesic to reduce fever and relieve
headache and joint pain (see DRUG REMEDIES, right).
Immunization against rubella is given as
● Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.
● As soon as you think that you have rubella, ● Make sure your child has the full recommended
avoid contact with anyone who might be pregnant. series of MMR immunizations.
● An attack of rubella also confers immunity, but
Rubella is infectious for about 7 days before the
if you plan to become pregnant, have your immunity
rash develops and for about 5 days afterward.
checked first, even if you have had rubella. Make sure
you are immunized, if necessary, before you conceive.
Immunity check
Seek further medical advice A simple blood test will establish
Arrange to see your doctor if you develop: your immunity to rubella.
● Headache or drowsiness
● Joint pain or sore eyes