Rubella And Pregnancy
Rubella or German measles is also known as the three-day measles that is caused by the rubella virus. When an infected person coughs or sneezes the Rubella virus can be easily transmitted to those in close contact. The disease is less severe than measles and affects children as well as adults. The virus causes a rash and an inflammation of the lymph nodes. Rubella spreads through the mucus that is expelled from the nose or throat of an infected person. There is a danger of pregnant women transmitting the virus to their unborn child through the bloodstream, resulting in what is known as congenital rubella syndrome. Even without symptoms, the virus is contagious. The risk is higher during the first 5 months of pregnancy. Children afflicted with the congenital rubella syndrome show signs of mental retardation, and malformation of heart, liver, eyes, spleen, and bone marrow. The most contagious phase of the virus is from a week before to a week after development of the skin rash.
Some of the common symptoms of Rubella are a low-grade fever and swelling of the lymph nodes behind the ears and neck. A skin rash usually begins on the face and spreads all over the body, disappearing as it spreads to new areas. The rash appears as a red spots, is itchy, and lasts for around three days. Children may also experience headaches, joint pain, inflamed eyes that are sensitive to light, and loss of appetite. In case your child has high fever, it is recommended that you consult your pediatrician. In some cases, swelling of the brain and ear infections may occur while they may not be any symptoms in many cases.
There is no prescription for treatment, except for bed rest and paracetamol for pain and fever. In the case of adults, recovery may take longer as compared to children. The MMR or measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is administered to babies between 12 to 15 months, with a follow up dose around the age of 4 to 6. Similar to the chicken pox virus, anyone that may catch the virus are immune and will not catch the virus again. Care should be taken not to vaccinate pregnant women or those planning on a pregnancy. Contracting the virus during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, birth defects, or stillbirth. Those planning to get pregnant ought to have a rubella immunity test. Even though you may have been vaccinated during early childhood, there are chances of the vaccine losing its effectiveness.
The effects of rubella vary according to the stage of pregnancy. During the first trimester, there are the highest chances of your baby being affected. The first few weeks present the biggest risks. The risks are reduced after the 10th week. However, hearing and sight could be affected later on in life. Chances of sight and hearing being affected during the second trimester are possible. There is a decrease in risks during the third trimester. It is advisable to consult your physician immediately on coming into contact with a rubella patient. After all, prevention is better than cure.
