Rubella is a viral infection characterized by symptoms that mimic a cold, and go on to include loss of appetite, sore throat, mild fever, and swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck. There is an accompanying rash, made up of pale pink dots that usually cause only mild discomfort. Incubation period is fourteen to twenty-one days. The condition itself only lasts three to five days.

Herbalism

• Hot yarrow tea, cooled and drunk several times daily, will relieve symptoms.
• An infusion of elderflower combined with peppermint will help cool a fever and calm your child.
• Very high fever can be treated with an infusion of catmint, taken as required.

Homeopathy

• Use Pulsatilla, when there is thick, yellow discharge and hot, red eyes.
• Use Belladonna, for fever, a bright red rash and hot face.
• Use Phytolacca for painful ears and swollen glands, better on taking cool drinks.
• Use Aconite if there is a high fever and not too much mucus.
• Use Mercurius sol. where there is yellow discharge and a fever.

Flower essences

• Rescue Remedy will ease any distress and calm the child.
• Chicory, Hornbeam, and Cherry Plum are useful for all childhood illnesses.

Aromatherapy

• A few drops of lavender oil on the bedclothes or on a handkerchief near the bed will help ease symptoms and calm the child.
• If there is a buildup of phlegm, use a few drops of tea tree or eucalyptus oil in a vaporizer to encourage easier breathing.

From the larder

• Fresh fruit and vegetable juices will encourage recovery.
• Pound some anise seeds and allow them to steep in boiling water for about thirty minutes, and then offer by the teaspoonfui to relieve symptoms.
• Borage stimulates the kidneys and can help when there is fever present.
• Honey and lemon in a little hot water can be drunk to reduce discomfort of the cold-like symptoms.

Self-help

• Frequent cool baths will relieve any itchiness and bring down a fever.

German measles (rubella) has mild symptoms of fever, swollen lymph nodes behind the ears and a rash. Young girls who do not contract it should be encouraged to be immunized before puberty to protect their future babies from possible damage in the womb.

CAUTION
If you suspect your child is suffering from German measles, keep her at home, even if she seems well, tf a pregnant woman who is not immune to the condition contracts it, there is a serious risk of birth defects and miscarriage.