Rubella is one of the most common childhood diseases. Therefore, many parents are interested in what are the symptoms and treatment of rubella. In addition, information on disease prevention will be helpful.
Causes and signs of rubella in a child
To begin with, it is worth noting that this is an infectious disease of viral origin. Infection is possible only by contact with a sick person. As for the incubation period, it usually lasts from 16 to 24 days.
The most characteristic symptom is a small red rash. In most children, it appears on the first day of the disease, in others a few days later. Redness first covers the face, and then passes to the trunk and limbs - in most cases, the lower back, back, buttocks and extensor surfaces of the arms and legs are especially severely affected. Although some children complain of itching, the disease does not bring serious discomfort, especially at such a young age.
In addition, general intoxication symptoms also appear. In some babies, their body temperature rises - it keeps at around 38 - 39 degrees, but no more than three days. The child feels tired, sometimes complains of dizziness, body aches and headache.
Joint swelling is also sometimes observed, although this symptom is found in only 30% of children. After the disease, persistent immunity remains in the body - repeated rubella is considered a very rare occurrence.
Rubella treatment in a child
When a rash appears, it is best to call a doctor. A specialist will examine the baby and evaluate its condition. Treatment of rubella in a child in most cases takes place at home.
Children need to observe bed rest. During the disease, you need a plentiful drink, which accelerates the removal of toxins, as well as good nutrition.
Naturally, the rash can not be combed - this is fraught with infection, the appearance of pustules. Nevertheless, some special preparations are not needed here. The doctor can recommend only antipyretic, sometimes sedative drugs. Only in especially severe cases is hospitalization necessary.
How to treat rubella in adults?
If in children rubella passes quickly and easily, then for adults this disease is extremely dangerous. Firstly, in adulthood, the infection is very difficult to carry - a rash sometimes covers the body almost completely. In addition, adult patients complain of severe joint pain, as well as migraines and weakness. Often a complication of the disease is arthritis.
Secondly, this virus is very dangerous for pregnant women. Quite often, the disease leads to stillbirth and miscarriages, and sometimes to violations of the fetal development.
Rubella treatment in adults should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor, and in especially severe cases urgent hospitalization is necessary. Do not self-medicate in any case.
As for prevention, modern medicine offers vaccination that will protect the body from infection. Vaccine injections are necessary for the part of the adult population that did not manage to get the disease in childhood.