Rubella, Measles and Mumps Flashcards
What is measles? How is it spread?
a viral infection of the paramyxovirus family
it is highly contagious
- spread by contact with nasal and throat secretions
What is the incubation, prodromal and symptomatic period of measles?
incubation period is about 10 days
prodromal phase is about two days then there is onset of the koplik spots then rash occurs last
What is the prodromal phase of measles?
flu-like symptoms
- cold, harsh cough, runny nose, diarrhoea, conjunctivitis and fever
occurs for around 2 days before koplik spots and rash occurs
What are the symptoms of measles?
preceded by: harsh cough runny nose, cold, fever, diarrhoea , conjunctivitis
two days later: koplik spots = small white spots on the inner cheeks and gums
rash appears: red/brown small patches, blanch if pressed, can merge if many are present, start behind the ears then spread to the face and trunk
What are practical measures for measles?
no cure, only symptomatic treatment
drink water to stay hydrated
analgesics for fever and pain - paracetamol, ibuprofen
clean eyes with damp cotton wool
What safety measures should be done for measles?
immediate referral - highly contagious
must contact the local health protection that monitor measles incidence
What is rubella?
it is a virus infection of the toga virus family
- is also known as German measles
it is contagious
- spread by direct contact with throat and nasal secretions
What is the incubation, infection and rash period of rubella?
incubation period - 12-23 days
infectious period - upto 7 days before and after the rash appears
rash - 3-5 days
How does rubella affect pregnant women?
it can spread to the foetus and can be fatal
- miscarriage
- organ defects
- growth delay
- deafness
What are the symptoms of rubella?
rash appears
- starts on the face and spreads to the trunk and limbs
- fine red spots that blanch with pressure and are not as confluent as measles
followed by a mild cough, runny nose, sore throat, inflamed eyes
there could be enlargement of the glands around the neck, ears and head
How does rubella affect women differently?
it can be associated with painful joints (wrists, knees)
- rare in children and men
What are practical measures for rubella?
no cure, only symptomatic treatment
drink water to hydrate
analgesics for pain and fever - paracetamol or ibuprofen
When is it safe for people with measles, rubella or mumps to freely socialise?
measles - must stay home for at least 4 days after they develop a rash
rubella - must stay home at least 4-7 days after the rash appears
mumps - must stay home for at 5 days after parotitis occurs
What is meningitis?
an infection caused by bacteria, fungi or virus
- bacterial is more serious but is rare
can develop into meningococcal septicaemia (blood poisoning)
it is contagious
- spread by nasal and throat secretions
What are the symptoms of meningitis in adults?
fever
stiff neck
headache
nausea and vomiting
aching muscles and joints
cold hands and feet
dislike of bright lights
seizures
pale, mottled skin
confusion
drowsiness or unresponsiveness
skin around lips is a pale, blue colour
rapid breathing
red or purple blotchy rash (starts as red pin pricks) which does not blanch on pressure and begins on trunk and limbs
- occur due to blood leaking out of capillaries
