• Viral infection that may affect the entire body
• Symptoms may include swollen glands in the neck or behind the ear, mild rash and fever
• Spread by breathing in infected droplets from the air
• Affects males and females
• Can occur at any age in individuals not vaccinated against rubella
• May be mild without symptoms to severe depending on the age of the affected individual
• Can be life threatening

• Avoid spreading the infection to others by staying at home and practicing good hand washing and cleaning habits
• Rest

FOR ITCHING

• Avoid items or situations that cause you to itch
• Moisturize daily
• Use creams, lotions or gels that soothe and cool the skin
• Avoid scratching
• Cut fingernails short, and consider wearing gloves at night to prevent scratching
• Use mild, fragrance free soap and laundry detergent
• Cover area with cold wet bandages or take a cool bath
• Over-the-counter medicines (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Hydrocortisone cream
  • Diphenhydramine

FOR NASAL CONGESTION

• Increase fluid intake
• Breathe moist steam from a hot shower or bowl of water
• Apply hot packs or compresses to face
• Clear your nasal passages with an approved nasal device
• Elevate your head while sleeping
• Over-the-counter medicines (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage)
  • Decongestants
  • Saline nasal sprays

FOR PAIN

• Apply hot or cold packs to the area
• Relaxation techniques
• Distraction
• Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Acetaminophen
  • Ibuprofen