Rubella (German measles) is a viral infection that causes a rash, fever, joint pain and swollen lymph nodes. While generally a mild disease in children, rubella is most concerning during pregnancy. Infection during pregnancy can lead to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), which may cause miscarriage, stillbirth and birth defects such as deafness, eye abnormalities and congenital heart disease. Before the rubella vaccine was introduced, an estimated 20,000 babies were born each year with birth defects due to CRS.
Why does my child need protection against rubella?
While rubella was eliminated in the U.S. in 2004, the disease continues to circulate in many parts of the world. Since 2012, all cases of rubella have been imported from outside the U.S. Because rubella infection during pregnancy can have devastating consequences, it is important to maintain high levels of immunity in the U.S. to prevent the virus from spreading to pregnant women and their unborn babies.
Which vaccines protect against rubella?
The MMR vaccine protects against rubella, as well as measles and mumps. The MMRV vaccine also protects against rubella, measles and mumps as well as varicella (chickenpox). Children need two doses of MMR vaccines at 12-15 months of age and 4-6 years of age.
Is it safe?
The MMR vaccine is safe – hundreds of millions of doses have been given over the past 50 years. Side effects of the vaccine occur infrequently, but can include fever, soreness at the injection site and rash. If your child has a weakened immune system, you should talk to your child’s doctor prior to vaccinating. The MMR vaccine does not cause autism.
Is it effective?
Yes, the vaccine is very effective. One dose of MMR is 97% effective against rubella and provides important lifelong protection against the potentially serious virus. The vaccine has been so effective that the disease is now eliminated in the U.S.