Rubella (German measles)

Rubella (German measles)

Rubella (German measles) is a much more benign disease, often called the “three days measles”. After 14-21 days from exposure, there will be a mild illness for 1-7 days consisting of malaise, headache, and fever. The non-blistering rash then develops on the forehead and face, spreading downward to the trunk and extremities. Recovery is usually complete. However, serious complications may be seen when a pregnant mother becomes infected. Within the first three months of pregnancy, the developing child is susceptible to Congenital rubella.Fetal infection at such a vulnerable period may lead to severe handicaps—heart malformation, mental retardation, or deafness. For this reason it is important that the mother should avoid contact with anyone who might have measles during early pregnancy. She should never receive a vaccination if there is a possibility of pregnancy within the following two months.

Treatment
There is no specific treatment for Rubella; however, management is a matter of responding to symptoms to diminish discomfort. Treatment of newly born babies is focused on management of the complications. Congenital heart defects and cataracts can be corrected by direct surgery.Management for ocular congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) is similar to that for age-related macular degeneration, including counseling, regular monitoring, and the provision of low vision devices, if required