GERMAN MEASLES (Rubella)

This is a viral infection which has no specific treatment and is only a danger to unborn babies.

The pinprick rash appears during the first day and usually covers the body, arms and legs in small pink patches about 2-4mm and does not itch. You may feel some lumps (lymph glands) behind the ears and other than occasional aching joints usually does not cause other symptoms.

It is infectious from 2 days before the rash appears, until the rash disappears in about 4-5 days from that date. Because of the risk to unborn babies, it is important that all contacts are informed in order that anyone who may be pregnant can contact their doctor. Most people over 14 months old have been vaccinated against it, so should not catch it a second time.