17798 Rubella

Overview

Rubella is a contagious viral infection sometimes called German measles. It usually causes a fine pink rash, a mild fever, and swollen glands. Most people get better quickly and without problems, but the virus can be very dangerous if a pregnant woman catches it because it can harm her unborn baby.

Rubella is now rare in countries with routine vaccination, but it still appears in communities where vaccination rates are low.

People who have not been fully vaccinated, including children, teenagers, and young adults. Pregnant women who are not immune are at the highest risk of serious complications for their baby.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A pink or red rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body
• A mild fever usually below 101°F / 38.3°C
• Swollen glands behind the ears and in the neck
• A runny or stuffy nose
• A headache and mild sore throat
• Achy or swollen joints, more common in women

Symptoms in children

• A rash that begins on the face and moves downward
• A low fever and feeling irritable
• Swollen glands, especially behind the ears

Symptoms in older adults

• Joint pain and swelling, especially in the hands and knees
• Feeling tired and generally unwell
• A mild fever and headache

Causes

Main causes

• Infection with the rubella virus, which spreads through tiny droplets from coughs and sneezes
• Direct contact with an infected person's saliva or nasal mucus, such as kissing or sharing cups
• Passing from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby through the bloodstream

Risk factors

• Not being fully vaccinated against rubella
• Traveling to regions where rubella is still common
• Working in schools, childcare, or healthcare settings
• Being in close contact with someone who has rubella

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you are pregnant and think you may have been exposed to rubella
• If you have a rash with a high fever that does not improve
• If you have a weakened immune system and develop a rash

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you suspect you or your child have rubella, call your GP surgery for advice
• If you are planning a pregnancy and are not sure whether you are vaccinated

Diagnosis

A doctor can suspect rubella from the rash and symptoms, but the only way to be certain is a laboratory test. This is especially important for pregnant women or during an outbreak.

Tests that may be done

• A blood test to check for germ-fighting antibodies against the rubella virus
• A throat swab or urine sample to test for the virus itself

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will ask about your symptoms, any possible exposure, and your vaccination history. They may arrange a swab or blood test. While you are being diagnosed, you should stay home and avoid contact with pregnant women.

Treatment

There is no medicine that cures rubella. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and stopping the virus from spreading. Most people recover at home without needing specific medical treatment.

Self-care at home

• Rest at home and avoid school or work until at least 4 days after the rash first appears
• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or warm soup
• Take simple pain and fever relief as recommended by your pharmacist or doctor
• Use a cool cloth or cool bath to ease discomfort from the rash

Medical treatments

If complications occur, such as an ear infection or joint inflammation, a doctor may recommend specific treatment. In severe but very rare cases, hospital care may be needed. Pregnant women need careful follow-up with their obstetrician to monitor the baby.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used for rubella.

Living with this condition

Rubella usually clears within a week. Stay away from others, especially pregnant women, until at least 4 days after the rash starts. Rest as much as you need and wait until your energy returns before going back to your normal routine.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep your distance from pregnant women and people with weak immune systems until fully recovered
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• Wash your hands often with soap and water

Diet and exercise

Eat light, easy meals if you feel unwell, and focus on drinking enough water. Once the fever eases, light activity such as short walks can help you feel better, but don't push yourself too hard.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Staying home for a while can feel lonely, and a rash or fever can make you feel miserable. It's normal to feel frustrated or anxious. Talk to friends or family by phone or video, and reach out to a healthcare professional if low mood persists.

Prevention

Yes, rubella can be prevented with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Getting vaccinated protects you and helps protect vulnerable people, including pregnant women and newborns.

Vaccines

The MMR vaccine is given as part of routine childhood vaccination worldwide. Anyone who is not fully vaccinated can receive catch-up doses from their GP. If you are planning pregnancy, talk to your doctor about vaccination timing before you conceive.

Screening programmes

Pregnant women may have a blood test in early pregnancy to check immunity to rubella. If you are planning a pregnancy and are unsure of your vaccination status, ask your GP about testing.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a woman catches rubella early in pregnancy, there is a high risk of congenital rubella syndrome, which can cause hearing loss, eye problems, heart defects, and developmental delay in the baby
• Rarely, rubella can cause a drop in blood platelets, leading to unusual bruising or bleeding
• Very rarely, rubella can cause inflammation of the brain, known as encephalitis

Long-term outlook

For most people, rubella is a mild, short illness that passes without treatment. With the MMR vaccine, rubella is almost completely preventable. If you are pregnant, prompt medical care can help monitor and manage any risks. The vast majority of people recover fully.

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