Rubella

Everyone knows rubella as the disease that can cause fetal deformities in pregnant women. But what exactly is rubella, how do you get it and what can you do about it?

Rubella is a childhood disease caused by a virus. In young children there will usually be few complaints, most do not even have a fever. But the older you get, the more complaints and complications will occur. Fortunately, experiencing the disease provides lifelong protection.

The disease is contracted by inhaling respiratory droplets from someone who has the disease and has to cough or sneeze. A pregnant woman can also infect her own fetus.

Typical of the disease is the red rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Sometimes the spots will overlap, causing the child to look completely red. Furthermore, signs of a cold can occur with swollen glands in the neck. Vaccination is the best way to prevent the disease.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025