Identification

• German measles is a viral infection caused by the rubella virus that is commonly found in children, but it can also affect adults. It is normally a mild condition that affects primarily the respiratory system. Because it is caused by the rubella virus, German measles is sometimes simply referred to as rubella. Even though it is referred to as a form of measles, the German measles is caused by a completely different virus than the standard measles is caused by.
  
  

Effects

• There are several common symptoms associated with German measles that may appear shortly after infection. These symptoms include a fever, a runny nose, a headache and a general feeling of discomfort. Some of the more visible symptoms include bloodshot eyes and a red rash that appears with swelling, generally around the eyes. These symptoms usually last for a few days.
  
  

Severity

• While more severe symptoms are rare with a case of German measles, it is important to be aware of what these symptoms are. One of the more rare but serious symptoms is a low platelet count in the blood. This leads to easy bruising and bruises that remain for an abnormally long period of time. With a low platelet count the blood will not clot properly and this could cause excessive bleeding even from the smallest wounds.
  
  

Warning

• German measles is normally a harmless condition that will either disappear on its own after a few days, or will respond well to treatment. However, it is possible that German measles could cause birth defects to an unborn child if the child's mother contracts the condition while pregnant. Some of the common birth defects caused by German measles are blindness and heart conditions.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• In almost all cases of German measles, the condition will leave on its own after only a few days. Treatment may consist of medication to relieve symptoms such as the fever or headache. There are vaccines that can help prevent the disease if given to young children or older adults. Once you have contracted the condition and recovered from it, you will never have it again.