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Rubella
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Skin Hair Nails

Rubella

Rubella is a viral infection that typically presents as a mild fever and rash, though it poses significant risks to pregnant individuals and their babies.

Overview

Rubella is an infection caused by a virus. It is usually mild with fever and a rash. About half of the people who get rubella do not have symptoms. If you do get them, symptoms may include:

  • A rash that starts on the face and spreads to the body
  • Mild fever
  • Aching joints, especially in young women
  • Swollen glands

Risks and Prevention

Rubella is most dangerous for a pregnant woman's baby. It can cause miscarriage or birth defects.

Rubella spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes. People without symptoms can still spread it. There is no treatment, but the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine can prevent it.

Frequently Asked Questions

The rash usually appears 3–5 days after the first symptoms and lasts about 3–5 days. Fever and joint aches often subside within a week, so most people feel back to normal within 10–14 days.
If a woman contracts rubella during the first trimester, there is a 30–90% chance of miscarriage and a 10–30% chance of congenital rubella syndrome, which can cause hearing loss, heart defects, and developmental delays. Vaccination before pregnancy and avoiding exposure during pregnancy are the best protections.
Yes. About half of rubella cases are asymptomatic, yet these individuals can still spread the virus through respiratory droplets for up to 4 days before symptoms appear and up to 2 days after.
dults should receive two MMR doses at least 28 days apart. If you have never been vaccinated, get the first dose as soon as possible and the second dose 28 days later; if you are unsure of your status, a single dose may be sufficient if you have documented immunity or a recent test.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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