Caused by the pleomorphic rna virus of the genus Rubivirus

Caused by the pleomorphic RNA virus of the genus Rubivirus

• Caused by the pleomorphic RNA virus of the genus Rubivirus

• Infects only human subjects

• In adults and children causes:

• Mild fever & malaise
• Generalised fine erythematous rash – rarely purpuric
• Cervical lymphadenopathy
• Arthralgia

Before 12 weeks pregnancy up to 90% risk of:

• Before 12 weeks pregnancy up to 90% risk of:

• Miscarriage
• Cardiac anomalies
• Nerve deafness
• Cataracts or retinopathy
• Mental retardation
• Often multiple defects

• Fetus somewhat safer in the 2nd trimester but…

• Sensineural deafness is the most common problem

• In the second half of pregnancy

• Hepatosplenomegaly
• Failure to thrive, osteitis
• Diabetes, hypothyroidism and GH deficiency
• Progressive panencephalitis
• = The Congenital Rubella Syndrome

Immunise all children at 12 -15m (MMR)

• Immunise all children at 12 -15m (MMR)

• Test all women who are pregnant (or plan to conceive) for immunity

• Avoid infection if pregnant

• Spread by nasopharyngeal droplets +/- 7 days from the time of rash

• Retest any pregnant woman who is exposed to the virus

• Terminate pregnancy for proven infection

• Immunise women postpartum if low titre or non immune

• Immunisation of a pregnant woman with the live virus is not recommended but is also not associated with teratogenesis