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Rubella
Also known as: German measles, 3-day measles Formal name: Rubella antibodies, IgM and IgG Related tests: TORCH, Antibody tests
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Common Questions
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1. Should pregnant women be vaccinated for rubella?
2. Does the vaccine have any risks?
3. How soon after I have been exposed to the virus will I get it?
4. What do the letters in the MMR vaccine stand for?
1. Should pregnant women be vaccinated for rubella?
The rubella vaccine should not be given to a pregnant woman, and a woman should avoid getting pregnant for at least one month after getting vaccinated.
2. Does the vaccine have any risks?
The vaccine contains a live virus that has been altered so it promotes an antibody response but does not cause a rubella infection. Some people may have a rash that lasts 2–3 weeks after vaccination and pain in their joints, especially their hands and wrists. Side effects are rarely seen in young children who get the vaccine. Patients who have suppressed immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS and cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, should consult with their doctors before getting a rubella vaccine.
3. How soon after I have been exposed to the virus will I get it?
If you are going to have symptoms, the rash usually begins 15–17 days after coming in contact with an infectious person, but it may take as long as 3 weeks. A person is usually infectious about a week before the rash is visible and for 1-2 weeks afterwards. A newborn who was infected during pregnancy may remain infectious for several months.
4. What do the letters in the MMR vaccine stand for?
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. Since all three of these are common viral illnesses, they are contained within one vaccine. Measles is also known as Rubeola and is different from Rubella (German Measles).
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This article was last reviewed on
June 20, 2008.
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