How is German Measles Also Known?

German measles, also referred to as rubella, is a viral infection caused by the rubella virus. It is a highly contagious disease that primarily affects children and young adults. Rubella is often less severe than measles, but it can have serious consequences for pregnant women and their unborn babies.

The term "German measles" is commonly used to describe rubella due to its initial identification in Germany in the 18th century. However, this name can be misleading as it may create confusion with the actual measles virus, which is an entirely different disease. To avoid this confusion, medical professionals and health organizations prefer using the term "rubella."

Rubella is transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus then enters the body through the respiratory tract and replicates in the lymph nodes. The infected individual can spread the virus even before showing any symptoms, making it challenging to control the spread of the disease.

Typical symptoms of rubella include a red rash that starts on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body, low-grade fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and mild joint pain. These symptoms usually last for about three days. However, the virus can cause more severe complications in some cases.

Pregnant women who contract rubella during the early stages of pregnancy are at risk of passing the infection to their unborn child, leading to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). CRS can result in severe birth defects, including hearing loss, eye abnormalities, heart defects, and developmental delays. This is why it is crucial for women to be vaccinated against rubella before becoming pregnant.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent rubella. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is routinely given to children in many countries, providing long-lasting immunity against rubella. It is also recommended for adults who have not been immunized or have not had the disease before.

In conclusion, German measles, or rubella, is a highly contagious viral infection. While it is commonly known as German measles, the medical community prefers the term rubella to avoid confusion with the measles virus. Vaccination plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of this disease and protecting pregnant women and their unborn babies from its potentially devastating effects.

Sign Up