Rubella
(German Measles)
- What is rubella (German measles)?
- What are rubella symptoms and signs?
- What are the complications of rubella?
- How is rubella spread from person to person?
- Can rubella be prevented with a vaccine?
- Does my child need the rubella vaccine (MMR)?
- As an adult, do I need the rubella vaccine (MMR)?
- Patient Comments: German Measles (Rubella) - Signs and Symptoms
What is rubella (German measles)?
An acute viral disease that causes fever and rash.
What are the symptoms of rubella?
Rash and fever for two to three days (mild disease in children and young adults).
What are the complications of rubella?
Birth defects if acquired by a pregnant woman: deafness, cataracts, heart defects, mental retardation, and liver and spleen damage (at least a 20% chance of damage to the fetus if a woman is infected early in pregnancy).
How is rubella spread from person to person?
Spread by contact with an infected person, through coughing and sneezing.
What is the rubella vaccine?
Rubella vaccine (contained in MMR vaccine) can prevent this disease.
Does my child need this vaccine?
Children should get 2 doses of MMR vaccine:
- The first dose at 12-15 months of age
- The second dose at 4-6 years of age
These are the recommended ages. But children can get the second dose at any age, as long as it is at least 28 days after the first dose.
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German Measles (Rubella) - Signs and Symptoms
Question: What were the signs and symptoms associated with German measles (rubella) in you or a relative?
German Measles (Rubella) - Vaccine Experience
Question: Did you postpone getting the rubella vaccine for your child? If so, please share your experience and reasons.
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