Rubella

Rubella is a contagious infection caused by the rubella virus. It mostly affects children and young adults.

Symptoms usually appear 2 to 3 weeks after exposure to the virus. The symptoms include rash, fever, nausea, and conjunctivitis. The rashes which occur in majority of cases, usually start on the face and neck, before progressing down the body. They can last from 1 to 3 days. The most infectious period is usually 1–5 days after the appearance of the rash. 

Rubella infection during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, can result in miscarriage, fetal death, stillbirth, or congenital malformations in children, which is also known as congenital rubella syndrome (CRS).

The diagnosis of rubella includes detection of antibodies in blood like IgM for new rubella infection and IgG antibodies for a past infection or immunization against it. 

Rubella can be prevented by timely administration of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. It is a safe and effective way to protect you and your family from rubella.

There is no specific treatment for rubella. However, symptomatic care including good nutrition, adequate fluid intake, rest along with Vitamin A supplements can help in alleviating symptoms.