Rubella, commonly known as German measles, is a disease caused by the rubella virus. The virus usually enters the body through the nose or throat. The disease can last 1-5 days. Children recover more quickly than adults.
Rubella can affect anyone of any age and is generally a mild disease. However, rubella can cause congenital rubella syndrome in the fetus of an infected pregnant woman.
Prevention & Treatment
Fewer cases of rubella occur since a vaccine became available in 1969. Most people are vaccinated against rubella as children at 12-15 months of age. A second dose is required before age 11.
Symptoms are usually treated with acetaminophen until the disease has run its course.
