Rubella

Updated: 2024-03-13

Description

An illness also known as German measles that is caused by a virus and can most often be prevented with a vaccine.

Overview

Rubella is caused by a virus that passes from person to person through coughs, sneezes or direct contact with infected mucus. Rubella can cause serious health problems for unborn babies. A vaccine for rubella helps prevent the disease.

Symptoms

Fever and headache are symptoms of rubella. Rubella also causes a rash of small spots that starts on the face then spreads to the chest, arms and legs. The infection also can cause the lymph nodes in the neck to swell.

Treatments

Rubella treatment helps manage symptoms. Healthcare professionals may suggest that for as long as people with rubella can spread the virus, they should avoid people who are pregnant.