Rubella warning after infections

Parents are urged to make sure their children have been vaccinated

Parents are being urged to make sure their children are vaccinated against rubella, as concerns are raised the infection is circulating around Crieff.

Rubella is a viral infection, commonly known as the German Measles.

It is generally a mild illness, but can cause birth defects if a woman catches the disease in early pregnancy.

The main symptoms are a fever and red-brown rash. Swollen glands, a lack of energy and aches and pains are also common.

Vaccination protection

The disease is passed on through droplets in the air from coughs and sneezes of infected people.

Dr Julie Cavanagh, from NHS Tayside, said: "The health protection team is concerned that rubella infection may be circulating in the local area.

"However, I would stress that the majority of people are actually immune to the disease.

"The safest way to protect yourself and your children against measles, mumps and rubella is the combined MMR vaccine and I would encourage all parents to ensure their children's vaccinations are up to date."