Measles, mumps and rubella(German measles)are viral illnesses that were once considered a normal part of growing up. The viruses produce lifetime immunity, but complications can be serious; and so now children are routinely vaccinated against them. The vaccines for these illness are often administered together, and are referred to as the MMR vaccine or MMR.

* What are measles?

Measles(rubeola) is a highly contagious viral infection seen mostly in children. It can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, eye problems, heart and nervous system problems, and even death.

* What causes measles?

Measles is caused by the rubeola virus and is spread primarily through the air from mucous secretions. It is contagious from four days after exposure until about four days after the appearance of the rash. Anybody without immunity from prior infection or vaccination is vulnerable.

* What are measles symptoms?

The symptoms of measles are fever, irritated eyes, photophobia, and upper respiratory symptoms. A blotchy red or brownish rash appears two to four days later, on the head, then migrating down over the body, lasting about three days. Grayish spots (Koplik's spots) appear in the mouth several days before the rash.

* Measles treatment:

Measles has no cure and must run its course. Rest, fluids, and fever reducers (but NEVER aspirin, due to the risk of Reye's syndrome) can provide comfort. The rash can be helped with antihistamines and calamine lotion.

* Rubella, or German measles:

Rubella, despite it's common name, German measles, is a separate illness from measles (rubeola), caused by a different virus. Rubella poses special risk to pregnant women and their unborn children since the virus can infect the baby before it is born. Severe birth defects can occur in congenitally infected infants, including deafness, mental and physical retardation, and organ malformations.

* What causes rubella?

The rubella virus is spread from person to person through airborne mucous excretions. It is contagious as soon as a week before symptoms appear, and up to a week after the appearance of the characteristic rash.

* Rubella symptoms:

Symptoms appear two to three weeks after exposure, and begin with one or two days of mild fever and swollen lymph nodes, followed by the appearance of a patchy, light red rash on the back of the neck and behind the ears.

* Rubella treatment:

There is no cure for rubella. Ameliorative treatment

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