German measles, medically known as rubella, is a common but mild infectious disease that often occurs in childhood.  In  pregnant women, however, it can have dire consequences.

Rubella is a Latin word meaning “little red”, which refers to the rash typical of the disease. The disease is also known as German measles, because it was first described by German doctors in the mid-eighteenth century.

Causes

German measles is caused by the rubella virus. Infection is spread through close contact with a person who has the disease. It mostly affects young children.

Dangers for pregnant women

Although the disease is usually mild in children, it has serious consequences when a pregnant woman becomes infected. If the pregnant mother is infected within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, the baby may be born with congenital rubella syndrome, which consists of a range of serious incurable illnesses. Between 25 and 60% of babies may have birth defects such as deafness, blindness, heart disease or malformations of other organs. About 20% of infected pregnant women will miscarry.

Symptoms

    • Rash of tiny pink, slightly raised spots, usually starting behind the ears, in the neck or on face, spreading downwards to rest of body. The rash may last from one to five days
    • Swollen glands, especially behind the ears
    • Slight fever
    • Joint pain, lasting for up to 14 days
    • Feeling unwell a few days before rash appears.

People with German measles remain infectious for others from five days before and seven days after the rash has appeared.

Treatment

Bed rest is recommended for four days after the rash has appeared. Painkillers may be taken if needed for joint pain. (Do not give painkillers containing aspirin to children.) Owing to the serious health risk to unborn children, infected people should away from pregnant women.

Immunity

Immunity to the disease is important for all women. One attack of German measles will give life-long immunity. Alternatively, an immunisation injection may be given. If a young women is uncertain of her immunity, a blood test may be done to confirm rubella antibodies, indicating immunity.

 

Sources
Engel, J. 1996. The complete South African Health Guide. Southern.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com
South African Medical Advisor. 1983. Reader’s Digest.