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.
Symptoms of rubella include:
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.
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.