Rubella (German Measles)
Description General Measures Medicine Treatment Referral ICD-10 codes: B06.0/B06.8-9 DESCRIPTION Incubation period: 14–21 days. A viral infection with skin lesions that is less severe than measles and lasts only 3–4 days. A maculopapular red rash starts on the face spreading to the trunk, arms and legs. It usually fades as it spreads. Note: If cough, coryza or conjunctivitis are also
Description
General Measures
Medicine Treatment
Referral
ICD-10 codes: B06.0/B06.8-9
DESCRIPTION
Incubation period: 14–21 days. A viral infection with skin lesions that is less severe than measles and lasts only 3–4 days.
A maculopapular red rash starts on the face spreading to the trunk, arms and legs. It usually fades as it spreads.
Note:
If cough, coryza or conjunctivitis are also present, it is essential to exclude measles. See case definition of measles (See: Measles)
Clinical features include:
- Mild rash.
- Swollen and tender lymph nodes behind the ears or at the back of the neck (suboccipital).
- In adults, a small joint arthritis may occur.
Note:
Infection during the first or second trimester of pregnancy may lead to severe permanent deformities in the baby. All pregnant women should be referred for confirmation of diagnosis of rubella and counselling.
GENERAL MEASURES
-
Bed rest, if needed.
- Isolate from pregnant women for 7 days after onset of the rash.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
Children
- Paracetamol, oral, 10–15 mg/kg/dose 6 hourly when required. See: dosing table.
Adults
- Paracetamol, oral, 1g, 4-6 hourly when required.
- Maximum dose: 15mg/kg/dose.
- Maximum dose: 4g in 24 hours.
REFERRAL
Urgent
- Pregnant women with rubella.
- Pregnant women who have been in contact with a patient with rubella.
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Primary Healthcare, 2020-2024_Version 1.1_20 January 2025
Chapter 10: Infections and Related Conditions_10.11 Rubella (German Measles)