Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious viral infection that can cause serious health complications, especially in pregnant women. The virus is spread through contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person. Symptoms of rubella include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and joint pain. In pregnant women, rubella can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), which can lead to severe birth defects in the baby.
There is no specific treatment for rubella, but the vaccine is very effective in preventing the disease. The rubella vaccine is part of the MMR vaccine, which also protects against measles and mumps. The MMR vaccine is safe and effective, and it is recommended for all children. Avoiding contact with people who are infected with rubella is also important, especially for pregnant women.
