Rubella
Rubella is a contagious viral infection, sometimes called German measles, but it is different from measles. It is often mild or causes no symptoms. Its greatest danger is during pregnancy: infection can pass to the developing baby and cause miscarriage or serious birth defects. People who feel well can still spread rubella.
Prevention: Vaccine
Symptoms
- A rash that starts on the face and spreads over the body
- Mild fever and sore throat
- Joint inflammation can occur, especially in adult women
- Some people have no noticeable symptoms
Transmission
- Respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes
- From an infected pregnant person to the developing baby
Prevention
Vaccination protects against rubella. If infection is suspected, contact a healthcare professional and tell close contacts, especially anyone who is pregnant. Seek prompt advice about exposure during pregnancy rather than relying on whether a rash appears.
Traveler risk
Rubella still circulates in parts of the world. Review protection before international travel.
Diagnosis and care
There is no specific medicine that clears rubella. Care usually focuses on relief of symptoms; pregnancy-related exposure or infection requires medical assessment.
Source
- About Rubella
Based on CDC information
Source language: English
Source reviewed: January 17, 2025
Source accessed: May 17, 2026
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