Rubella
16 February 2025
Rubella is a highly contagious viral illness that typically causes mild fever, a mild rash, and swollen lymph nodes. While most cases are not severe, if a pregnant woman contracts rubella early in her pregnancy, the virus can pass from her to the developing baby via the bloodstream, potentially leading to birth defects or even fetal death.How is rubella spread?
Rubella is transmitted through direct contact with the nasal or throat secretions of an infected person. It can also spread by inhaling droplets released into the air when someone who is infected sneezes, coughs, or speaks.
What are the symptoms of rubella?
Rubella is usually a mild disease that may show few or no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they can include a rash, mild fever, joint pain, headache, general discomfort, runny nose, sore throat, and red eyes. The lymph nodes located behind the ears and at the back of the neck may become swollen, leading to tenderness and/or pain. The rash, which can be itchy, begins on the face and spreads downward, typically lasting around three days. In up to half of all rubella cases, a rash is not present.