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rubella
(roo-belīә)
a mild systemic disease caused by a virus, not as contagious as chickenpox or measles, but with frequent epidemics among schoolchildren, usually during the spring and early summer. The virus is spread by direct
contact and by droplet infection. Rubella begins with a slight cold, fever, and sore throat. The lymph nodes behind the ears and at the back of the neck may swell, causing soreness or pain when the head is moved. A rash appears first
on the face and scalp, and then on the body and arms; it usually fades within a few days. If a pregnant woman contracts rubella,
especially during the first trimester, the baby may be born with congenital rubella syndrome. Called also German measles.
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