Rubella

What Is Rubella?

Rubella is a viral illness caused by the rubella virus, known for its characteristic red or pink rash. Though symptoms are generally mild, the virus poses a serious risk to unborn babies if a pregnant person becomes infected, potentially leading to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), which can cause hearing loss, heart defects or developmental delays.

Thanks to widespread vaccination, rubella has become rare in the United States. However, cases can still occur, especially when individuals travel internationally or are unvaccinated.
Rubella typically lasts about 3–7 days and resolves without complications in most healthy individuals.

What Causes Rubella?

Rubella is caused by the rubella virus, a member of the togavirus family. It is transmitted from person to person through:

• Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
• Direct contact with nasal or throat secretions
• Coming into contact with germs on shared surfaces and then touching your face can spread infection
  
  

A person with rubella can spread the virus for 1 week before and up to 7 days after the rash appears.

In pregnant individuals, the virus can cross the placenta and infect the fetus which is why rubella prevention through vaccination is critical.

Signs and Symptoms of Rubella

 Rubella symptoms often appear 2–3 weeks after exposure and may include:

• Fever, usually under 102°F
• Headache or fatigue
  
• Runny or stuffy nose
  
• Red or pink rash, beginning on the face and spreading to the body
• Swollen lymph nodes, especially behind the ears or at the back of the neck
• Joint pain, more common in teenagers and adults, especially women
  
  

The rubella rash typically lasts about three days and fades without peeling or scarring.

Because symptoms can resemble other viral illnesses, rubella often goes unnoticed, especially in people who have mild or no rash.

How Is Rubella Diagnosed?

A health care provider can often diagnose rubella based on symptoms and rash appearance, but lab testing is usually required to confirm the infection.

Tests may include:

• Blood test to detect rubella antibodies (IgM and IgG)
• Throat or nasal swab to identify the rubella virus
  
  

For pregnant individuals, testing is especially important. If infection is suspected during pregnancy, providers may use ultrasound and additional blood work to monitor the baby’s health.

How to Treat Rubella

 There is no specific antiviral medication for rubella. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing the spread of infection.

At-Home Care

• Get plenty of rest to support recovery.
• Drink fluids to stay hydrated.
• Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) to reduce fever or relieve aches.
• Stay home and avoid close contact with others, especially pregnant women, until at least 7 days after the rash appears.
  
  

Medical Treatment

In most cases, rubella resolves on its own without complications. However, medical care is essential for:

• Pregnant individuals exposed to rubella - testing and monitoring are needed
• People with weakened immune systems
• Infants born with congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), who may require specialized medical support

How to Prevent Rubella

 The best way to prevent rubella is through vaccination. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella) offers long-term immunity and has made rubella rare in the U.S.

Prevention Tips

• Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, first at 12–15 months and again at 4–6 years.
• Adults who were never vaccinated or are unsure of their immunity should talk with a health care provider about getting the vaccine.
• Women should ensure they are vaccinated before becoming pregnant.
• Keep germs from spreading by washing hands regularly and covering coughs and sneezes properly.
  
  

Vaccination not only protects the individual but also helps prevent outbreaks and protects vulnerable populations, especially unborn babies.

If you or your child develop symptoms of rubella or have been exposed to someone with the illness, contact your primary care provider. Testing and vaccination are the best ways to stay protected.

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