What is it?
An acute disease caused by the rubella virus. An infection with the rubella virus gives lifelong immunity. Rubella is usually a mild disease in children and adults.
Signs and Symptoms
- Low-grade fever
- Malaise, tiredness
- Raised, red, pinpoint rash that starts on the face and spreads downwards, it lasts 3 – 5 days.
Children with CRS (congenital rubella syndrome) can suffer hearing impairments, eye and heart defects and other lifelong disabilities, including autism, diabetes mellitus, and thyroid dysfunction.
How is it spread?
Through contact with the nose and throat and secretions of an infected person:
- Touching articles contaminated with secretions from the nose and throat of an infected person.
- Kissing or sharing anything that is put in the mouth.
Infants with CRS (congenital rubella syndrome) can shed rubella virus in their nose and throat secretions and urine for up to one year.CC Update
Incubation Period
Usually 14 – 21 days from contact with an infected person.
When is the person contagious?
From 7 days before until 7 days after the onset of the rash. A child with rubella is most infectious when the rash is erupting.
CC age of 12th month?
How to prevent spread of the illness to other children?
Exclude child from school or the child care facility for 7 days after the onset of the rash.