Rubella is also called German measles or three days measles. Rubella is a virus that is mild but contagious. The cause of this disease is the rubella virus. This virus can spread through droplets of fluid from the mucous membrane. Infected persons can spread the germs through coughing, sneezing, sharing foods and drinks. A healthy person can also get infected by touching the contaminated surface and then touching nose, eyes or mouth without washing hands. Coming in contact with the blood of an infected person can also be one of the causes of Rubella.

People who get infected with rubella virus in start will have small pink fine rashes. These rashes start from the face and spread to neck, chest and rest of the body. Other symptom of rubella virus includes mild fever and swollen gland behind the ears and at back of the head. In young ones rubella symptoms includes fever, eye pain, soar throat and body aches. Tiredness and joint pain can also be symptoms of rubella virus. Rubella patient is contagious few days before the rashes appear and until 5-7 days after its first appear. Rubella does not cause any long term problem. Female who is expecting if get infected with this virus can transmit it to fetus. This results in serious birth defect which is called congenital rubella syndrome. CRS birth defect can result in eye problem, hearing problem, and heart disease. Research show that up to 20% of the newborn is rubella infected. Rubella can be diagnosed by blood test or virus culture. In blood test antibodies are identified for rubella virus. These antibodies help doctor to determine that whether a person has a recent infection caused by the rubella virus. It also helps in diagnosing whether a person is vaccinated against virus or is immune. The way to prevent the children from rubella is to have on time vaccination. Rubella vaccine is the part of the measles, mumps, rubella vaccines which are given to every child till 12 months age. In order to prevent this infection in new born female should get vaccination before conceiving. Research show that rubella vaccine protects 90 out 100 from getting this disease.