Rubella

Question 1

What type of infection is rubella?

Answer 1

Viral infection spread by direct contact or respiratory droplets.

Question 2

What is the typical severity of rubella in children and adults?

Answer 2

Usually mild and self-limiting.

Question 3

What are the main symptoms of rubella?

Answer 3

Rash starting on face/neck spreading downward (usually lasting 3-4 days), swollen lymph nodes, low-grade fever, mild upper respiratory symptoms, arthritis in adults.

Question 4

Why is rubella dangerous in pregnancy?

Answer 4

It can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) with birth defects.

Question 5

What precautions should people with rubella take?

Answer 5

Rest, fluids, paracetamol or ibuprofen (avoid aspirin in children), isolation for ≥5 days after rash onset, avoid contact with pregnant women, and practice good hygiene.

Question 6

What must be done when rubella is suspected?

Answer 6

Notify the local Health Protection Team (HPT) immediately and confirm diagnosis with lab tests.

Question 7

How is rubella managed in pregnant women?

Answer 7

Urgent notification to HPT, lab testing regardless of immunization status, obstetric referral if infection before 20 weeks, symptomatic care, and counseling.

Question 8

What are the main features of congenital rubella syndrome (CRS)?

Answer 8

Hearing loss, eye defects (cataracts, glaucoma), heart defects (patent ductus arteriosus, pulmonary artery stenosis), growth retardation, microcephaly, intellectual disability, liver/spleen enlargement, and bone lesions.

Question 9

How long should people with rubella stay away from school or work?

Answer 9

At least 5 days after the rash appears.