Home > Medical Articles > Topics beginning with G > German Measles - Rubella > Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Medical References
Diseases & Conditions
Women's Health
Mental Health
Men's Health
Medical Web Links
MOL Site Map
Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news
German Measles - Rubella
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Rubella, or German measles, is a viral infection characterized by a rash.
What is going on in the body?
The rubella virus is spread when uninfected people come in contact with secretions from infected persons. Most frequently, this is due to exposure to droplets from coughs and sneezes and mucous from the nose. Rubella can also be passed from a mother to her fetus during pregnancy.
What are the causes and risks of the infection?
The rubella virus causes this infection. The main risks of this infection are related to brain involvement or infections in a fetus. Either of these cases may result in permanent brain damage or death. Infections in a fetus may cause multiple severe defects in the newborn.