DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Rubella (German Measles)
A mild viral infection causing rash and fever, but devastating to developing fetuses (congenital rubella syndrome). Usually mild in children and adults but can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe birth defects if contracted during pregnancy. Vaccine-preventable.
100.0K
20
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Clinical diagnosis
- 2Serology (IgM/IgG)
- 3RT-PCR
- 4Viral culture
- 5Prenatal testing (if maternal infection suspected)
Prognosis
Excellent for non-pregnant individuals. Mild, self-limiting. Risk to fetus: miscarriage, stillbirth, deafness, cataracts, heart defects, intellectual disability. Congenital rubella syndrome affects 90% if infected first trimester.
Prevention
- MMR vaccination (2 doses)
- Pre-conception vaccination screening
- Prenatal rubella immunity testing
- Avoid contact with infected persons during pregnancy
- Travel vaccination
Research Status
MMR vaccine highly effective. WHO goal of rubella elimination. Congenital rubella syndrome preventable through vaccination. Post-exposure prophylaxis available. Research on vaccine safety in pregnancy ongoing.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cdc.gov/rubella
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/rubella
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rubella
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.