📖 what

What is rubella?

MedicineVaccine-preventable disease

Quick Answer

Rubella is a usually mild viral illness that causes fever and a rash, but it can be very dangerous in pregnancy. Infection during pregnancy can cause congenital rubella syndrome in the fetus.

The Full Story

Rubella, sometimes called German measles, is caused by the rubella virus. Many cases are mild, with rash, swollen lymph nodes, and joint pain, especially in adolescents and adults. The major medical concern is infection during early pregnancy, when the virus can severely damage the developing fetus. Widespread rubella vaccination has made congenital rubella syndrome rare in many countries, but outbreaks still occur where vaccination rates are low.

Key Facts

1.Rubella is especially dangerous during early pregnancy
2.Congenital rubella syndrome can cause deafness, cataracts, and heart defects
3.Rubella vaccine is included in MMR

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"The mild disease that can cause severe birth defects"