Rubella and Rubeola

Rubella and rubeola were once commonly thought of as childhood diseases. In the last few decades, these illnesses have been largely brought under control in developed nations through widespread vaccinations. In developing areas, however, these viral infections still pose a threat to children and adults alike. Although both diseases are known commonly as the measles, the viruses that cause them are not closely related. "German measles" (rubella) is caused rubivirus, and the red measles (rubeola) is caused by morbilivirus. Rubella and Rubeola takes a look at the history, pathology, potential complications, prevention, and treatment of these diseases.

Chapters include:

• An Ancient Plague
• Viral Diseases
• Rubeola: The Red Measles
• Rubella: The "German Measles"
• Epidemiology
• Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention.

Brian R. Shmaefsky, Ph.D., is a professor of biology at Lonestar College in Kingwood, Texas. He did his undergraduate studies in biology at Brooklyn College in New York and completed his master's and doctoral studies at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Dr. Shmaefsky also completed graduate work in environmental physiology at University of Illinois and Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory. His research emphasis is in environmental toxicology issues and sustainable development. He has published books on topics such as biotechnology, human anatomy and physiology, and infectious diseases. Dr. Shmaefsky lives in Kingwood, Texas. Foreword by David Heymann, World Health Organization