Rubella (German Measles)

• An infection caused by a virus and can be prevented by vaccination .
• Most children receive 2 doses of vaccine against Rubella (MMR). 

If your child has Rubella, he/she should not return to school until at least 7 days after the rash first appeared.

• It can take from 14 - 21 days to develop Rubella after exposure. 
• The infection usually begins with a low-grade fever, swelling of the glands in the neck and behind the ears, and a rash with small red spots.

• Usually spreads through the air when an infected person sneezes, coughs or talks.
• Can be spread by touch (hand contact). 
• It is highly contagious for 7 days before, and up to 7 days after the rash develops.

• There is no “cure” but can be managed with bed rest, fluids and fever reduction
• Children and adults usually get a milder form of the infection.
• It can create serious problems for pregnant women, especially in the first 3 months of pregnancy.
• Antibiotics do not work in treating Rubella.

 
What can parents do?

• Since rubella looks similar to other rashes, it can only be diagnosed with a lab test
• Check your child’s immunization records to make sure that he/she has had a Rubella vaccine at the age of 1 year, and again, between 4-6 years of age (MMR).
• Watch your child for signs of Rubella.
• Contact your family physician if your child develops symptoms of Rubella, and show your doctor this letter.
• Pregnant women should not have contact with an infected person.