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Rubella (german measles)

Overview

Open all pages about Rubella (german measles)

Symptoms of rubella include a spotty rash that feels rough, with swollen glands in your neck, aching fingers, wrists, or knees and a high temperature.

Rubella usually gets better in about a week. Stay at home, get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids until you're feeling better.

Rubella is spread in coughs and sneezes. Stay off work or school for 5 days after the rash appears and wash your hands often to stop it spreading.

Rubella can be serious if you catch it while you’re pregnant. It can harm your baby and can sometimes cause a miscarriage.

The MMR vaccine can protect against rubella. The vaccine is offered on the NHS to all children in the UK.

Rubella (german measles) is a rare illness that causes a spotty rash. It usually gets better on its own but can be serious if you're pregnant.

Page last reviewed: 23/05/2022
Next review due: 23/05/2025