Diagnosis

If the rash typical of rubella is present, the diagnosis must be made on the basis of the symptoms. The rash must be carefully examined to rule out other diseases with similar rashes, such as measles, rubella, scarlet fever, chickenpox and three-day fever. If the diagnosis is inconclusive, the antibodies for the virus can be detected in the blood.

However, this only works if the patient has a functioning immune system. People with immunodeficiency or after organ transplantation usually have no antibodies that can be detected. To diagnose a newborn baby with an infection from the mother, one takes amniotic fluid or umbilical cord blood and detects the antibodies.

Therapy

There is no therapy specifically for ringworm. The treatment is carried out symptomatically, if necessary. For example, painkillers for headaches and muscle pain can be given, as well as antipyretic drugs such as paracetamol.

Calf compresses can also relieve the symptoms. The rash itself is usually not treated, but as the skin becomes slightly scaly and rough, one can improve with nourishing, greasy creams or oil baths. Cold compresses and cooling ointments can also help with itching.

In patients who have a weakened immune system, the virus infection is fought with immunoglobulins, as the immune system cannot defend itself against the virus. Rarely, complications also occur with rubella. In girls and women, inflammation of the joints can occur.

However, these usually do not need to be treated, as they usually subside by themselves. In the case of severe pain, symptomatic therapy is also recommended. In general, it is important to stay away from pregnant women, as they can transmit the virus to the child, which can lead to threatening damage or even death of the child.

Important tips for a quick recovery

Although rubella is not treated causally, one must wait until the virus has been successfully fought by the immune system, but this can have a negative effect on the duration and intensity of the rash. Even a hot bath can promote the reappearance of the rash. Therefore, it is especially important to spare the affected child as long as the rash persists.

It is also essential to ensure that the child is protected from the sun and heat, and sunscreen should be applied. Often, even after the rash has completely subsided, very dry and scaly skin remains.In order to prevent this, it is recommended to cream the skin regularly with moisturizing creams and lotions. Some pediatricians also recommend oil baths to restore the skin’s natural protective barrier and thus prevent scaling.

Many parents also report recurring rashes after a rubella infection. This phenomenon occurs frequently and is usually harmless. Since the factors listed above favour a subsequent flare-up of the virus, it is important to take it easy even a few weeks after the acute symptoms have subsided and to refrain from excessive sporting activity.

Stress,
Heat,
Increased solar radiation
And physical strain