Newborn rubella

What is newborn rubella?

When a mother catches rubella (German measles), a virus, early in pregnancy, it can pass to her unborn baby. This can cause serious birth defects, called congenital rubella syndrome.

Signs

Babies may be born with hearing loss, eye problems, heart problems, or slow development. The mother's own rubella is usually mild: a short rash, low fever and swollen glands.

How it spreads

Rubella spreads through coughs and sneezes. If a mother catches it early in pregnancy, the virus is very likely to reach her baby.

How to protect yourself

One dose of rubella vaccine gives lasting protection. It is often given with measles vaccine, and protects babies when women are immune before pregnancy.

Get medical help

A pregnant woman who gets a rash or may have caught rubella should see a doctor. Babies born after rubella in pregnancy need checks of hearing, eyes and heart.

In Dooram's words, from the World Health Organization. Source: WHO fact sheet: Rubella, read 8 October 2026. General information, not medical advice.