Rubella

Contagious viral disease, usually mild and of short duration, but capable of causing foetal abnormalities if the mother has the infection during the first three months of pregnancy (rubella embryopathy). It is characterized by malaise, fever, enlarged lymph nodes and maculopapular rash. Caused by the rubella virus "rubivirus" gender. The incubation period is 2 to 3 weeks. Currently virtually eradicated by vaccination at 12-15 months and 3-4 years.