Kids' health - common conditions: German measles
German measles/Rubella
What is it? A viral infection that causes a whole body rash
What are the symptoms? Typical things to watch out for are:
- Swollen glands
- Spotty rash all over the body
- Sore eyes, a bit like conjunctivitis
What should I do? Sit it out. Make sure you reduce any fever with paracetamol or ibuprofen liquid, make sure your child drinks plenty of water. If anything seems unusual, see your doctor.
How long will it last? Glands stay swollen for about 7 days and the rash begins near the end of this time and lasts for about 1-5 days.
When will they get it? Rubella is a lot less common now, since the introduction of the MMR jab. It is most common in young children.
What if my child doesn't get it? Assuming they've had the MMR jab, then they're unlikely to get it later in life. However, it can be very serious in pregnant women.
- Find out more about German measles in children
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By Rob Mansfield
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