Rubella (Togaviridae)
Togaviridae
Rubella Virus
Rubivirus genus
Rubella, aka, German measles is transmitted via respiratory droplets. Upon inhalation, the virus infects the upper respiratory tract and travels to the lymph nodes.
Viremia disseminates the virus systemically.
Infection may be asymptomatic.
When present, symptoms are attributed to the formation of immune complexes.
– In children, symptoms are typically mild, and include rash.
– In older children and adults, symptoms can be more severe, and include rash and arthralgia.
Infection triggers antibody and T-cell responses that clear the virus from the host.
Immunity is life-long.
Congenital rubella syndrome aka Gregg Syndrome
"Blueberry muffin lesions", Cataracts
Serious long-term congenital defects include deafness, blindness, cardiac dysfunction, and developmental impairment.
Vaccine
MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine prevents rubella infection and congenital defects.
– Recommended for all children.