Rubella (German measles) is a contagious viral illness that is now uncommon due to immunization. Usually, it causes little more than a mild red rash that spreads from the face to the body. Often there are no symptoms. A child may start with a mild fever, swollen glands, and a runny nose 2-3 weeks after contact with 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.
Arrange to see your doctor if you suspect that you have rubella. Check when to attend the surgery, because of the risk of infecting a woman who is pregnant.
PREVENTION
Immunization against burella is given as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.
* Make sure your child has the full programme of MMR immunizations.
* An attack of rubella also confers immunity, but if you plan to become pregnant, have your immunity checked first, even if you have had rubella. Make sure you are immunized, if necessary, before you conceive.
Immunity check
A simple blood test will establish your immunity to rubella.
What you can do yourself
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.
* Take a painkiller to reduce fever and relieve headache and joint pain (see DRUG REMEDIES).
* Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
* As soon as you think that you have rubella, avoid contact with anyone who might be pregnant. Rubella is infectious for about 7 days before the rash develops and for about 5 days afterwards.
Arrange to see your doctor if you develop :
* Headache or drowsiness
* Joint pain or sore eyes.
DRUG REMEDIES
Painkillers will help bring down a fever and relieve headache and joint pain of swollen glands.
* For a child, give paracetamol (see p 187) or ibuprofen (see p 184),which are available in various forms. Ask our pharmacist for advice.
* Adults can take paracetamol (see p 187) or ibuprofen (see p 184).
No comments:
Post a Comment