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Rubella (German Measles)

Rubella is a disease caused by the Rubella virus. It is commonly known as German Measles or 3 Day Measles but it is not the same. Measles and Rubella share some characteristics, but they're caused by different viruses.

Rubella is generally mild in children, but can have serious complications in adults. Infection during pregnancy can lead to serious birth defects, premature delivery, and fetal death.

Signs & Symptoms: appear 12-23 days after exposure. Many people are asymptomatic (without symptoms) but symptoms can include:

• Rash (starts on the face and progresses down the body)
• Low grade fever
• Swollen glands in the neck, behind the ears
• Upper respiratory infection
• Pain and stiffness in fingers, wrists, knee joints
• Swelling of the Brain
• Low blood platelet levels
• Hemorrhage (Bleeding Out)

Prevention: It is easily prevented with the MMR vaccine. Two doses are recommended.

School age children in the State of Florida are required to be vaccinated for Measles. The vaccination is known as MMR because it is combined with Measles and Mumps.