Differences Between Measles and German Measles in Pediatrics

The difference between measles and German measles?

What is the difference between measles and rubella?

michelle, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/07/16

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

Dear Michelle,
The differences between measles and rubella are summarized as follows:
Measles:
- Causative Virus: Measles virus
- Mode of Transmission: Airborne droplets or direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of an infected person.
- Incubation Period: 8-13 days, typically around 10 days.
- Infectious Period: 4 days before and 4 days after the rash appears.
- Clinical Features:
1.
Prodromal Symptoms: Approximately 4-8 days prior, symptoms include high fever (39.5°C), fatigue, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, cough, and the appearance of Koplik spots on the buccal mucosa.
2.
Rash Phase: The rash appears 3-4 days after the prodromal symptoms, starting behind the ears and spreading to the face, then downward to the trunk and limbs.
The rash lasts for 4-7 days.
Fever begins to decrease 1-2 days after the rash appears.
3.
Recovery Phase: After the rash resolves, there may be residual dark pigmentation.
- Complications: Approximately 5-10% of patients may experience complications due to bacterial or viral superinfection, including otitis media, pneumonia, and encephalitis.
Rubella:
- Causative Virus: Rubella virus
- Mode of Transmission: Similar to measles virus.
- Incubation Period: 14-21 days, typically around 17 days.
- Infectious Period: From one week before the rash to four days after.
- Clinical Features:
1.
Mild fever.
2.
Small pink or red spots that begin behind the ears and then spread to the forehead and other parts of the body.
The rash typically resolves within 2-3 days without leaving dark pigmentation.
3.
Swelling of the lymph nodes behind the ears, in the neck, and at the nape.
- Complications: The danger of rubella is not to your child but to any pregnant women who may be exposed, as rubella can lead to fetal defects such as deafness and blindness.
Both diseases can be prevented with vaccines.
It is advisable for women of childbearing age to have received the rubella vaccine.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Hsiao Kai-Wen, Pediatrics, Qishan Hospital

Reply Date: 2007/07/16

More Info

Measles and German measles, also known as rubella, are both viral infections that can affect children, but they are caused by different viruses and have distinct clinical features, transmission methods, and potential complications. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective diagnosis, management, and prevention in pediatric populations.

Causative Agents
- Measles: Caused by the measles virus, which is a paramyxovirus. It is highly contagious and can be transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

- German Measles (Rubella): Caused by the rubella virus, which is a togavirus. While also contagious, rubella is generally less infectious than measles.

Clinical Features
- Measles: The classic presentation includes a prodromal phase characterized by high fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). This is followed by the appearance of a characteristic rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward. The rash is usually red and blotchy, and it can last for several days. Koplik spots, small white spots inside the mouth, are also a hallmark of measles.

- German Measles: The symptoms of rubella are often milder and can include low-grade fever, sore throat, and fatigue. The rash associated with rubella is usually lighter in color and starts on the face before spreading to the rest of the body. It typically resolves within three days. Unlike measles, rubella does not usually cause Koplik spots.

Transmission and Contagiousness
- Measles: Highly contagious, with a transmission rate of about 90% among susceptible individuals. An infected person can spread the virus from four days before to four days after the rash appears.

- German Measles: Also contagious, but the transmission rate is lower than that of measles. An infected person can spread rubella from about one week before to one week after the rash appears.

Complications
- Measles: Can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. It can also cause subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare but fatal neurological disorder that can occur years after infection.

- German Measles: While rubella is generally milder, it can cause serious complications in pregnant women, particularly during the first trimester, leading to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). CRS can result in severe birth defects, including heart defects, cataracts, and deafness.

Vaccination
- Measles: The measles vaccine is part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, which is recommended for children starting at 12 months of age, with a second dose typically given between ages 4 and 6.

- German Measles: The rubella vaccine is also included in the MMR vaccine. Vaccination is crucial for preventing rubella and its associated complications, especially in women of childbearing age.

Conclusion
In summary, while both measles and German measles are viral infections that can affect children, they differ significantly in their causative agents, clinical presentations, transmission methods, and potential complications. Measles is generally more severe and contagious, while rubella poses a significant risk during pregnancy. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent both diseases, and public health initiatives continue to promote immunization to reduce the incidence of these infections. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the symptoms and seek medical advice if they suspect their child has either condition.

Similar Q&A

Timing for German Measles Vaccine: What Parents Need to Know

Hello Doctor, the maternal handbook indicates that the first dose of the German measles vaccine should be administered at 12 months of age, and the second dose in the first grade of elementary school. My child turned 5 years old this August and just started kindergarten, but rece...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
Over two years ago, research found that the levels of measles and rubella antibodies in children before entering elementary school were relatively low. To enhance immunity, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) held a vaccination advisory meeting at that time and decided to advan...

Do Health Clinics Offer Check-Ups and German Measles Vaccinations?

Hello, doctor: May I ask if the health center provides services for physical examinations or vaccinations for German measles? Thank you!

Dr. Xu Junzheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Ms. Li: Most public health centers offer services for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. However, whether you need to pay out of pocket depends on your specific situation, and the staff at the health center will provide you with detailed explanations. As for hea...

Understanding Measles Vaccines for Infants: Cost and Options

Is there a paid option for the measles vaccine for nine-month-old infants (commonly referred to as a better vaccine)? Are the vaccines provided at general pediatric clinics the same as those at public health centers? Thank you.

Dr. Gu Qingxian reply Pediatrics
Currently, measles vaccines are provided by health centers and there are no out-of-pocket options available.

Understanding Measles and Rubella Risks During Pregnancy

Dear Doctor, I would like to ask you a question. I am currently six months pregnant, and I recently saw news reports about cases of measles and rubella. When I was a child, I did not receive the relevant vaccinations and contracted measles and chickenpox once each. I also had me...

Dr. Dong Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: If you have had German measles (rubella) or measles in the past, there is still a possibility of reinfection. If you are pregnant and concerned about related infection issues, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect any symptoms of reinfection. Tr...