German measles

German measles is caused by a virus found in the nose and throat of a patient and is passed from person to person by tiny droplets in the exhaled air.

It is also transmitted from a pregnant mother to her developing baby through the bloodstream via the placenta.

• Your child should stay at home while sick or for up to a week after any rash disappears. Usually, no medical treatment of a child with German measles is required
• Echinacea, zinc and vitamin A are valuable to support the immune system in fighting the infection
• Ear infection occurs occasionally and should be treated by you health professional

Ensure the child is comfortable and warm, and drinking plenty of fluids.

People who have had German measles once develop a lifetime immunity.

If a rash is present and the skin is itchy use an oat bath. Place a handful of rolled oats into a stocking. Tie off and place under the running bath water. Bathe the affected areas or immerse the entire body in the oat bath.

Odourless Garlic for relief of symptoms associated with congestion.

Women who are thinking of conceiving should have their antibody levels for the Rubella virus checked by their healthcare professional. If you are pregnant and you think you have been exposed to German measles, contact your healthcare professional urgently.