Rubella is an infectious viral disease known as German measles, or 3-day measles. The virus is spread by contact with airborne droplets from the nose and mouth of infected people. Rubella most often affects children who are not yet old enough to have been immunized and adults who did not catch the disease in childhood.
What is Rubella?
Rubella is a contagious viral infection that causes a red, itchy rash on the body. It is also known as German measles or 3-day measles. Rubella is usually mild and its symptoms include a fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. The rash usually appears on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body. Rubella is most commonly found in children, but it can affect people of any age.
The virus that causes rubella is spread through coughing and sneezing. It can also be spread through contact with infected blood or saliva. The virus can live on surfaces for up to two hours, so it is important to practice good hygiene if you are around someone with rubella.
If you think you or your child has rubella, it is important to see a doctor right away. Rubella can be serious for pregnant women and their unborn babies. If you are pregnant and think you have been exposed to rubella, please contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Signs and symptoms of rubella
If you think you or your child may have rubella, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.
Rubella is a virus that causes a distinctive, temporary rash. It can also lead to serious birth defects if a pregnant woman contracts the virus.
The most common symptom of rubella is a rash that begins on the face and spreads to the trunk, arms, and legs. The rash usually lasts for 3 days. Other symptoms of rubella include:
–Fever
-Headache
-Runny nose
–Sore throat
-Swollen lymph nodes
How can you treat it?
There is no specific treatment for rubella, but you can usually treat the symptoms at home. If you have a fever, you can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help lower it. You can also drink lots of fluids and rest. If your joints are painful, you can put a warm compress on them or take a hot bath. If your rash is itchy, you can apply a cool compress or calamine lotion. If you have any other questions about how to treat your symptoms, be sure to ask your doctor or healthcare provider.
Prevention of Rubella
The best way to prevent rubella is to get the MMR (mumps, measles, and rubella) vaccine. The MMR vaccine is very safe and effective. It is given as two shots, usually at 12 months and 4 years old. Children who are not vaccinated are at risk for getting rubella if they are exposed to the virus.
If you are not vaccinated and think you have been exposed to the virus, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. There is a treatment available called immune globulin (IG), which can be given within 6 days of exposure. However, it is most effective if given within 2-3 days of exposure.
For more information on rubella and the MMR vaccine, please visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/rubella/index.html
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/combo-vaccines/mmr/index.html
Durga Awasthi 
Sonal Mitra 
Health News