There's Been A Lot Of Talk About Measles, But What About German Measles?
By Dr. Brian McDonough
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) --- There's been a lot of talk about measles lately. Some are asking what about German measles, and wondering what the difference is.
When you get the MMR Vaccine -- that will protect against measles, mumps and rubella.
The Rubella part is German measles. Rubella can cause a rash similar to measles but it's usually not as severe as measles. The long-term complications usually aren't as severe.
The problem with German measles is that if a pregnant woman is exposed before she is 20 weeks pregnant, it can actually lead to birth defects and even miscarriage.
That means that someone could have Rubella, come in contact with a pregnant woman who has not been vaccinated, and cause those issues. Another reason for the MMR vaccine and the importance of getting people vaccinated.
