B06: Rubella [German measles]

Rubella, also known as German Measles, is an infectious disease caused by the Rubella virus. The virus primarily spreads through droplets from the nose or throat of an infected individual during sneezing or coughing. A hallmark of the illness is a distinctive red-pink skin rash, starting on the face and spreading to the body. However, not all individuals will develop it. Other symptoms include mild fever, headache, runny nose, inflamed eyes, and aching joints, which usually occur two weeks after exposure to the virus. It's most dangerous in pregnant women, as it can lead to serious birth defects or miscarriage. The virus can also result in swelling of the glands at the back of the neck, known as post-auricular lymphadenopathy. Rubella is self-limiting, meaning it clears up on its own within a few days to a week. The illness may lead to complications like encephalitis (brain swelling) or thrombocytopenia (a disorder that leads to easy bruising and bleeding), but these are rare.