3 Ways to Treat Rubella

1. Treat Your Symptoms

Rubella can't be treated. If you have the disease, you only can make yourself comfortable while the virus runs its course over 7 to 10 days. Treat your low-grade fever and aches with acetaminophen, ibuprofen or your preferred pain reliever. If a child has rubella, your doctor may recommend liquid infant paracetamol. Don't give aspirin to any child under 16. Aspirin can put your child at risk for Reye's syndrome, a deadly illness that damages the liver and brain. Doctors recommend rest and drinking liquids continually for anyone who contracts rubella. Since rubella is contagious, take time off from work or school and avoid socializing with others.

2. When to See a Doctor

Although rubella usually abates with rest and a fever reducer, you should immediately call a doctor if you develop a a dark, red rash. If you aren't feeling better after two weeks, see a doctor to make sure there isn't an underlying infection causing your symptoms.

3. Prevention Is Better Than Treatment

Vaccination is the only way to prevent rubella. You're less likely to contract rubella in the United States because widespread use of the vaccine has made the disease extremely rare, unless you travel overseas. Once you contract rubella, you are mmune for life. Most children receive a measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) inoculation in two sets, once right after their first birthdays and again when they enter school. You also can get the vaccine as an adult. Doctors recommend that adults get the inoculation if they work or attend school with a large group of people or are traveling overseas.