Difference Between Measles And Rubella

The difference between measles and rubella lies in the causative viruses and the severity of symptoms. The measles virus causes measles whereas the rubella virus causes rubella. Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive red rash whereas Rubella symptoms include mild fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.

In this article, we will study the difference between measles and rubella and their symptoms in detail.

Rubella is an infection that is used by the RuV virus. It is also known as German Measles or Three Day Measles. This infection is contagious and hence can spread from one person to another. The infection is mild but it can cause great harm to pregnant women and newborn infants if not treated properly. As Rubella is highly contagious it can transfer from a pregnant woman to the unborn baby. Although the disease Rubella is rare nowadays, vaccinations must be taken to avoid getting infected with the same.

Symptoms of Rubella

There are many symptoms of Rubella. Some of them are as follows:

• Rubella can cause pink rashes which become prominent all over the body.
• It can cause mild fever and runny nose.
• It can cause throat aches and can cause swelling of the eyes.
• It can also cause joint aches.

Treatment for Rubella

There is no proper treatment for Rubella. If someone is suffering from Rubella, it is best to consult a doctor depending upon the severity. To get relief from body aches, it is always better to use an analgesic after consulting a doctor. For mild fever, one can take paracetamol. If someone is suffering from Rubella, he/she should consume oranges, lemons, and other fruits. Foods rich in Vitamin A are also prescribed to patients suffering from the same.

Measle is a highly contagious disease that is spread by viruses in the paramyxovirus family. It is usually an airborne disease and can be spread via cough or sneeze. It can range in severity. For some, it may cause mild fevers and for some, it can cause severe pneumonia. Measles is very common among children.

Symptoms of Measles

There are many symptoms of Measles. Some of them are as follows:

• If someone is affected by measles after 1-2 days white spots also known as ‘Koplik’s spots’ appear in the mouth.
• One can get infected with red rashes.
• Fever, runny nose, sore throat, and cough are common symptoms of measles.
• Conjunctivitis is also caused by measles

Treatment for Measles

There is no precise treatment to prevent measles. If the severity is high consult a doctor. If not take fever reducers or analgesics to cure the pain. Consume plenty of liquids and also eat a balanced diet. Foods rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C should be preferred. To prevent measles completely one can take MMR vaccines. This vaccine should be taken in two doses by children aged between 15 months to 6 years.

Also Read: Importance of Vaccines, Vaccination and Immunization

The difference between Measles and Rubella is given below:

Understanding the differences between measles and rubella is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Measles, caused by a paramyxovirus, presents with a high fever, red blotchy rash, and severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. Rubella, caused by a togavirus, features a milder fever, fine pink rash, and is particularly dangerous for pregnant women due to the risk of congenital rubella syndrome. Both diseases are highly contagious and preventable through the MMR vaccine. Early vaccination and awareness are essential to control and prevent these infections, ensuring better public health outcomes.

Also Read:

• Microbes and Disease
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIS) of Reproductive Health Class 12
• STD Full Form – Sexually Transmitted Diseases
• Chlamydia Overview

How can you Tell the Difference Between Measles and Rubella?

Measles presents with a high fever and red blotchy rash starting at the hairline, while rubella features a mild fever and fine pink rash starting on the face.

Why is German Measles Called Rubella?

German measles is called rubella due to the Latin term “rubella,” meaning “little red,” describing the characteristic rash.

What is the Difference Between Rubella and Rubeola Virus?

Rubella is caused by the rubella virus, leading to a milder infection, while rubeola, or measles, is caused by the rubeola virus, resulting in more severe symptoms and complications.

What happens if Measles is not controlled properly?

Measles if not controlled properly can cause encephalitis (inflation of the brain), hearing loss, and pneumonia. Measles can also complications in the respiratory tract and can ultimately cause death.

Define MMR Vaccine.

The MMR vaccine is an immunization shot that protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. It is typically administered in two doses during childhood to ensure long-lasting immunity against these three viral diseases.

Is Rubella Contagious? Explain.

Rubella is highly contagious and is usually spread by a virus named RuV. The disease can be spread via cough droplets or sneeze. If someone is infected with Rubella the person can also act as a medium for spreading the disease.

Is Measles Similar to the Flu?

Although measles show symptoms similar to the flu, they are not the same. Measles can cause watering of the eyes. The risk of conjunctivitis is high in the case of measles than in the flu.