Rubella immunisation

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 3, Issue 7, 9 July 1985, Page 3

Rubella immunisation

During the coming two weeks an immunisation programme will be held offering Rubella immunisation to all girls attending Form 1. Rubella, or German Measles, is an infectious disease occuring commonly in children and young adults.

The main symptom is a mild pink rash on the face and body. Minor symptoms may include a slight fever, swollen neck glands and a general feeling of being off-colour. However, symptoms may be so mild that they passunnoticed, and it is very easy to confuse Rubella with other similar diseases. If a pregnant woman catches the disease the baby may be born deaf, blind, mentally retarded, or with heart defects. Women and their unborn children can be protected from Rubella either by a previous attack or by immunisation before they become pregnant. If you are pregnant and have been in contact with anyone with any Rubella symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Any woman who is at risk of becoming pregnant, and who is uncertain whether she is protected against Rubella, is advised to see her doctor. Blood samples can be taken to test immunity levels. Immunisation must not be given to a pregnant woman, and a woman must not become pregnant for at least three months after immunisation. The immunisation programme being carried out at school is free of charge and the consent of parents will be sought prior to immunisation.

Leigh

Berry

Public Health Nurse