German Measles in Children: Is It Really Dangerous?

German Measles, also known as Rubella, is a viral illness that rarely poses significant risks to children with a healthy immune system. However, its severity for pregnant women and their unborn babies cannot be overstated. In this article, we explore the characteristics of German Measles, its risks, and the importance of vaccination.

The Experience of My Family

My mother contracted German Measles when she was 15, and though she recovered quickly, her subsequent children faced more severe reactions to vaccines. My daughter, on the other hand, experienced German Measles twice and caught possible measles in between. These incidents provide us with a firsthand experience of the illness and its impact on different individuals.

Mild Symptoms and Frequent Occurrences

My daughter's first bout of German Measles occurred at a relatively young age, characterized by a 24-hour fever, runny nose, and a mild rash. At 11 months old, she had a more severe case lasting three days, with the doctor suspecting it might be measles. This was followed by another mild case at 15 months, which affected her father very seriously. My sister and her children also contracted German Measles, but with similar mild symptoms.

Health Risks for Pregnant Women and Newborns

The primary concern with German Measles lies in its potential impact on pregnant women, particularly during the first trimester. If a mother contracts the virus during this critical period, it can lead to severe developmental issues in the foetus, including deafness, decreased cognitive function, and multiple other anomalies. This is due to Rubella embryopathy, a condition that can cause serious complications in the newborn.

Past and Present

In the past, German Measles was more common, especially before the advent of routine vaccinations. However, with the widespread vaccination of children, particularly in the 12 to 15 month age range, the incidence of German Measles has significantly decreased. The vaccine has proven to be effective in preventing the spread of the virus and protecting vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women.

Conclusion

While German Measles is generally a mild illness with few complications in healthy children, it poses significant risks to pregnant women and their unborn babies. Therefore, the importance of vaccination against German Measles cannot be emphasized enough. Routine vaccinations not only protect individual children but also contribute to the overall public health by reducing the spread of the virus.