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The Rubella Vaccine Immunization Schedule
The rubella vaccine is given in combination with the measles vaccine at 9 months and repeated at 18 months. The vaccine is given as an injection in the left upper arm. The parents hold the child gently on their lap while the vaccine is administered.
The common side effects of the vaccine are a high body temperature and mild swelling at the injection site. This is relieved by pain relief medication as recommended by the nurse.
The Rubella vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine.
Rubella (German Measles)
Rubella, also known as German measles, is a viral infection that is particularly common in children. It is caused by the rubella virus and is spread through air droplets, contact with infected people, or contact with contaminated surfaces such as tables. Although the infection is usually mild in children, it can cause serious complications in pregnant women and their unborn babies. leading to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) in their unborn children.
Symptoms of Rubella
However, some children may experience more severe symptoms. The symptoms of rubella in children typically include a low-grade fever, swollen glands, and a rash. The rash usually starts on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body. The rash appears as pink or red spots that may be itchy. Some children may also experience joint pain which can last for several weeks or a headache. If a child develops complications from rubella, such as pneumonia or encephalitis, they may need to be hospitalized.
Prevention of Rubella
Children with rubella should avoid contact with others, especially pregnant women until they are no longer contagious. Prevention of Rubella in Children Rubella can be prevented with a vaccine, Some countries give the second dose of the Rubella vaccine is given between 4 and 6 years of age. The vaccine is very effective in preventing rubella, and it also helps to prevent the spread of the virus to pregnant women. Pregnant women who have not been vaccinated should avoid contact with anyone who has rubella.
Rubella and Pregnancy
Rubella infection can cause severe complications to the unborn child, especially in the first three months of pregnancy. Rubella infection in pregnancy can lead to complications in the newborn such as hearing and visual defects (cataracts), cognitive difficulties, and heart malformations among others. It is recommended that women who take the rubella vaccine should wait for at least 3months before getting pregnant. This is because the Rubella vaccine is live attenuated.
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