Rubella (German Measles)

Rubella is a generally mild viral infection causing a rash and mild fever. Its main danger is to unborn babies — infection during early pregnancy can cause serious birth defects (congenital rubella syndrome), making vaccination especially important.

• A fine, pink rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward
• Mild fever
• Swollen lymph nodes, particularly behind the ears and at the back of the neck
• Mild joint pain, more common in adults, especially women
• Many infections, particularly in children, are mild or go unnoticed

• Caused by the rubella virus, spread through respiratory droplets.
• Infection during early pregnancy can pass to the developing baby, causing congenital rubella syndrome, with a risk of serious birth defects affecting hearing, vision, the heart, and brain development.

• Usually diagnosed clinically based on the characteristic rash and lymph node swelling.
• Blood testing for rubella antibodies can confirm the diagnosis, which is particularly important to establish in a pregnant woman with a possible exposure.

In children and non-pregnant adults, rubella is generally mild and managed with rest, fluids, and paracetamol for fever or discomfort, as it resolves on its own.

There is no specific antiviral treatment.

Any pregnant woman with a possible rubella exposure or symptoms should seek prompt medical assessment, as management and monitoring of the pregnancy may be needed depending on the stage of pregnancy and confirmed infection status.

• Complete routine rubella-containing vaccination (usually combined as MMR) in childhood.
• Ensure women are immune to rubella (through prior vaccination) before becoming pregnant, since the vaccine cannot be given during pregnancy itself.
• Pregnant women who are not immune should avoid contact with anyone who has a rubella-like illness and seek prompt advice after any possible exposure.