Rubella (German Measles)

 Rubella is caused by the rubella virus, which is spread in much the same way as a cold or the flu.

Symptoms of rubella include:

·         a distinctive red-pink skin rash

·         swollen glands (nodes)

·         cold-like symptoms such as a sore head and runny nose

Rubella is spread through droplets of moisture from the nose or throat of someone who is infected. These droplets are released into the air when someone coughs, sneezes or talks.

If you inhale an infected droplet you can become infected. It can take 2-3 weeks for symptoms to develop but you will only be infectious to other people for one week before symptoms appear, and for up to six days after the rash has started.

Because children of this age play very close together with frequent physical contact, our policy at Groombridge Pre-school is that staff or children with rubella must stay away from pre-school until they are completely recovered.

 It’s also important to avoid contact with pregnant women. If you are pregnant and you think you may have been in close contact with someone with rubella then contact your GP. They will be able to refer you for tests to see if you have contracted rubella (which is unlikely, but it is important to take precautions).

Once a person has had rubella they should develop a life-long immunity against further infection.

 This policy is known, agreed and implemented by all staff.

 This policy is known and made available to all parents.