Rubella is a contagious infection caused by a virus. The disease occurs mainly in children aged 5 to 9 years. Rubella usually can not be catch again, once the body is immunized against the virus.
The virus is transmitted by respiratory route. It lodges in the throat for 7 to 15 days before you notice the rash.
The symptoms of rubella are often absent. There may be a slight fever and muscle aches. Some (50%) have red spots that start on the face and spread to the trunk and upper limbs. The rash usually disappears by the third day.
The disease usually heals without intervention. The treatment of rubella, if any, is to fight fever and take vitamin C. Measures are taken to prevent transmission of the virus, particularly to pregnant women.
Children are vaccinated against rubella between the ages of 12-24 months. Women who are not immunized and of childbearing age should be vaccinated before becoming pregnant.
Rubella is uncommon in countries with an immunization program. In Canada, less than 30 cases are reported annually.
24 avril 2010
| The text above is for information purposes only. Only a doctor can diagnose a disease. No treatment (medication or scheme) should be undertaken without consulting a health professional. |