MAIN Health Rashes Rubella or German Measles Rash

Rubella, which is also widely known as German measles or three day measles, is a rash which is caused by the rubella virus. It typically affects very young children, but can be contracted by anyone at any age. Despite the name, rubella is not actually a type of measles, nor is it even related to the measles, it simply shares many symptoms in common with measles.

Rubella symptoms

The primary symptom of rubella is the pink rash, which typically originates on the face and then spreads to the trunk and finally out to the limbs. The rash will disappear in the same sequence. Other symptoms can include nose congestion, a mild fever and headache, and possibly bloodshot eyes. The symptoms of rubella are usually quite mild, and it is possible to have rubella and not even know it.

Rubella treatment

Treatment of rubella is typically not necessary as it is generally a very mild infection that goes away on its own in three to five days. The older the infected person is, however, the more severe the rubella symptoms are, and so older people may need some treatment to lessen the symptoms. Also, pregnant women who contract rubella are at risk of developing complications since rubella can be passed on to the fetus and can pose potential pregnancy risks and health problems for the child both before and after birth. Pregnant women who become infected with rubella should see a doctor, and those infected with rubella should avoid pregnant women as much as possible.

Treatment is often unnecessary though, as rubella can usually be prevented. Rubella is not nearly as common today as it once was because there is a vaccine for the virus which is very effective at lowering the chances of being infected by rubella. The vaccine is typically administered to small children and is a standard inoculation, along with the measles and mumps vaccines, in most developed countries.


More information about rubella around the Web:

KidsHealth - Rubella (German measles)

Rubella- Wikipedia

This information is intended as reference and not as medical advice.
All treatment decisions should be made by medical professionals.

also see -> Fifth Disease | Diaper Rash

Purpura Rash | Rosacea | Roseola

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