Rubella Flashcards
(16 cards)
What is rubella also known as?
German measles
What type of virus causes rubella?
togavirus
What has made rubella very rare?
introduction of the MMR vaccine
What is a significant risk if rubella is contracted during pregnancy?
congenital rubella syndrome
During which seasons are rubella outbreaks more common?
winter and spring
What is the incubation period for rubella?
14-21 days
When is a person with rubella infectious?
from 7 days prior to symptoms until 4 days after onset of rash
What are some clinical features of rubella?
- prodrome e.g. low-grade fever
- rash - maculopapular, starting on face then spreading, fades by day 3-5
- lymphadenopathy - suboccipital and postauricular
What are some complications of rubella?
- arthritis
- thrombocytopenia
- encephalitis
- myocarditis
What is the risk of damage to the fetus if rubella is contracted in the first 8-10 weeks of pregnancy?
90%
Is damage from rubella common after 16 weeks of pregnancy?
No, it is rare
What are some features of congenital rubella syndrome?
- sensorineural deafness
- congenital cataracts
- congenital heart disease
- growth retardation
- hepatosplenomegaly
- purpuric skin lesions
- ‘salt and pepper’ chorioretinitis
- microphthalmia
- cerebral palsy
What should be done with suspected cases of rubella?
discuss with local Health Protection Unit
What type of antibodies will be raised in women recently exposed to the rubella virus?
IgM antibodies
What vaccination is offered to non-immune mothers in the post-natal period?
MMR vaccination
Should MMR be given to women known to be pregnant or attempting to become pregnant?
No
