Rubella, also known as German measles, is a relatively benign disease exclusive to humans when contracted postnatally. Prior to immunization efforts, rubella epidemics occurred about every 7 years. The classic presentation involves prodromal symptoms, followed by lymphadenopathy and the brief appearance of an exanthem. However, when a mother becomes infected during the first trimester of pregnancy, the resulting viremia has its most devastating effect on the developing fetus and can result in congenital rubella syndrome (CRS).
Peak infection rates of rubella tend to occur in late winter and early spring. Disease transmission is by droplet inhalation from the respiratory tract of an infected host. Cells in the nasopharynx become infected, followed by viral dissemination into the lymphatic system and eventually into multiple organs. The incubation period for postnatally acquired infection is 2 to 3 weeks. The period of contagion is from several days before to 2 weeks after the onset...
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