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Rubella, or German MeaslesRubella, or German measles, is another illness that can infect children. It is caused by a virus transmitted by an infected persons nasal or throat secretions and is also present in the infected persons urine or feces. The child first exhibits symptoms two to three weeks after first contact with the virus. The child is most infectious seven days before to about five days after a rash appears. German measles is characterized by a rash first appearing on the childs face, then spreading to the rest of the body, including the legs and arms. Unlike chickenpox or regular measles, German measles is a brief illness. The rash is generally gone after three days. The child, in addition to the rash, may experience a slight fever, headache, malaise and swollen lymph nodes. The doctor may prescribe medication for fever and pain. Isolate the child from pregnant women, since if the woman contracts German measles early in a pregnancy, there is risk of harm to the fetus. |
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