WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

What is rubella? Rubella, or German measles, is an infection caused by a virus. Rubella is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

What are the signs and symptoms of rubella?

• Fever, runny nose, or sore throat
  
  
• Headache or muscle aches
  
  
• Red, inflamed eyes
  
  
• Swollen, tender glands at the back of the neck and ears
  
  
• Rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body toward the toes
  
  
• Joint aches and pain

How is rubella diagnosed? Your healthcare provider may be able to diagnose rubella based on your symptoms and a physical exam. You may need a blood test to confirm the infection.

How is rubella treated? NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions. Do not give these medicines to children under 6 months of age without direction from your child's healthcare provider.

What are the risks of rubella? You may have joint pain and swelling. If you are male, your testicles may be inflamed. The infection may spread to your brain and cause it to swell, which can be life-threatening. Rubella can cause severe birth defects during pregnancy, especially during the first 3 months. These include deafness or damage to the baby's eyes, heart, brain, or nerves.

What can I do to manage my symptoms?

• Get more rest. Rest as much as possible until you feel better.
  
  
• Drink extra liquids. This will help prevent dehydration. Ask how much liquid you should drink each day. Healthy liquids include water, juice, and milk. Limit the amount of caffeine you drink.
  
  
• Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. This will help you feel better and give you more energy.

What can I do to prevent the spread of rubella? Stay away from others, especially anyone who is pregnant. Do not return to work until your healthcare provider says it is okay. Ask your child's healthcare provider when he can return to school or daycare. Get vaccines as directed. Vaccines help protect you and others around you from infection.

Call 911 for any of the following:

• You have a seizure.
  
  

When should I seek immediate care?

• You have trouble breathing.
  
  
• You are confused.
  
  
• You have a severe headache.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

• Your rash starts to itch.
  
  
• You have joint pain and swelling, even after treatment.
  
  
• Your testicles are inflamed (males).
  
  
• You are pregnant and think you might have rubella (females).
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.