Rubella

Rubella is a highly contagious infection caused by a virus. In the United States, it is no longer consistently present, with fewer than 10 cases reported annually. Since 2012, all reported rubella cases in the U.S. appear to have been contracted in other countries and brought into the nation.

Although rubella is commonly called German measles or three-day measles, rubella is not caused by the same virus as measles. Rubella is generally less severe and less contagious than measles.

Most people with rubella may experience mild symptoms or none at all. Common symptoms include a mild fever and a fine, red rash that starts on the face and quickly spreads to the trunk, arms, and legs. Teens and adults may also experience painful or swollen joints.

Because its symptoms can be mild, rubella can go undiagnosed. While the infection rarely poses a significant risk to adults or children, it is dangerous for unborn infants. Pregnant people who contract rubella risk miscarriage or may have babies with severe birth defects, such as blindness, deafness, or developmental delays.

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing rubella, providing lifelong protection against the infection.

Symptoms of Rubella

  • A mild fever
  • Red itchy eyes
  • Enlarged lymph nodes at the back of the neck and behind the ears
  • A fine pink or red rash
  • Aching joints

Transmission

Rubella is spread through respiratory droplets, often by coughing and sneezing.

Scientific term

  • Rubella

Generic term

  • Rubella
  • German Measles

Age groups at risk

  • All

Vaccine Information

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine for most people.

Rubella vaccination is particularly important for non-immune people who can get pregnant because of the risk for serious birth defects in infants if it is contracted during pregnancy.

Learn more about the MMR vaccine on the DOH vaccine webpage.

Additional Information

Rubella as a Notifiable Condition

CDC Information on Rubella