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How can I protect my child from German measles?

German measles is a common childhood disease that usually lasts about two to three days, and is characterised by a rash of tiny pink spots.

While many people and children who contract German measles don’t feel particularly ill while they have the virus (also known as Rubella) it can be very dangerous if they come into contact with pregnant women.

Rubella or German measles is contagious from around a week before the rash appears, and for about a week after it, and many people never even know they are infected, since there are minimal symptoms. The incubation period can be anything from two to three weeks, and once the spots appear, a few days rest in bed is the only treatment necessary.

Between 12 and 15 months, your baby will be vaccinated against Rubella, when he or she gets their MMR vaccinations, and, unless your doctor advises otherwise, it’s important that your child receives the vaccination. It’s also important that you keep anyone infected with Rubella away from pregnant women. Complications from deafness to brain damage can result from a pregnant woman contracting German measles.

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