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Public Health Solutions
District Health Department
995 East Hwy 33, Ste 1
Crete, NE 68333-2562
888.310.0565
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Rubella
Background
Rubella is often called "German measles, but it is actually caused by a different virus called Rubivirus. Rubella is especially dangerous for pregnant women - it can cause fetal death, premature delivery, and serious birth defects like deafness, cataracts, heart defects, mental retardation, or liver and spleen damage. During a US epidemic of rubella in 1964-1965 there were about 12.5 million cases of rubella, resulting in 11, 250 fetal deaths, 2,100 neonatal deaths, 11,600 babies born deaf, 3,580 babies born blind, and 1,800 babies born mentally retarded. Outbreaks have occured in the US among susceptible individuals who are not immunized. Two outbreaks in 1990 and 1991 in California and Pennsylvania resulted in the deaths of 58 infants.
Symptoms
About 50% of people with rubella do not develop any symptoms. Rubella causes a rash that is fainter than the measles rash, and lasts 2-3 days. A person with rubella may also have a slight fever and feel general discomfort.
Prevention
Rubella can be prevented by immunization, available since 1969. The MMR vaccine prevents against measles, mumps, and rubella. Two doses are recommended for children - the first dose at 12 to 15 months, the second before entering school at 4-6 years old. The vaccine is also recommended for some adults - see a doctor or nurse for more information in adult vaccination.
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