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Overview
Rubella (german measles) is a rare illness that causes a spotty rash. It usually gets better in about a week, but it can be serious if you get it when you're pregnant.
Symptoms
The main symptom of rubella is a spotty rash that starts on the face or behind the ears and spreads to the neck and body.
The rash takes 2 to 3 weeks to appear after getting rubella.
Rubella can also cause:
- aching fingers, wrists or knees
- a high temperature
- coughs
- sneezing and a runny nose
- headaches
- a sore throat
- sore, red eyes
It's very unlikely to be rubella if you have had both doses of the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine or had rubella before.
Rubella in Pregnancy
Rubella is very rare in pregnancy. But if you get it when you're pregnant, rubella could harm your baby.
It can cause:
- loss of the baby (miscarriage)
- serious problems after the baby is born – such as problems with their sight, hearing, heart, or brain
The risk is highest if you get rubella early in pregnancy.
There's not thought to be a risk to your baby if you get rubella after week 20 of your pregnancy.
Treatment Options
Rubella usually gets better in about a week.
After getting advice from a GP, you or your child should:
- get plenty of rest
- drink lots of fluids, like water or squash
- take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you're uncomfortable – do not give aspirin to children under 16
Prevention Tips
Rubella spreads in coughs and sneezes.
It’s infectious from 1 week before the symptoms start and for 5 days after the rash first appears.
It can be serious for some people, so you should try to avoid spreading it to others.
How to avoid spreading rubella:
- stay off nursery, school, or work for 5 days after the rash appears
- try to avoid close contact with anyone who is pregnant
- wash your hands often with soap and warm water
- use tissues when you cough or sneeze
- throw used tissues in the bin
- do not share cutlery, cups, towels, clothes, or bedding
When To See A Doctor
Call a GP if you or your child have symptoms of rubella.
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