Impact of Rubella Virus on the Fetus

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on May 25, 2025
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During pregnancy, if a pregnant woman is infected with rubella virus, it poses a significant risk to the fetus, primarily causing congenital developmental abnormalities. For example, there may be cardiac malformations, congenital heart disease, cataracts, and deafness. Some may experience delayed brain damage during infancy after the baby is born, as well as diabetes or other central nervous system disorders. When rubella virus infection occurs, it is generally advised to consider terminating the pregnancy. The risk of fetal infection and congenital malformations is highest in early pregnancy, potentially exceeding 80%.

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Does the blood test for rubella virus require fasting?

During the examination for rubella, blood can be drawn to test for rubella virus-specific antibodies IgG and IgM. It is best to conduct these tests on an empty stomach as fasting results are more accurate. Additionally, rubella virus can be isolated from some of the nasal secretions of the patient, though this test is more expensive and less commonly used. Rubella is a self-limiting disease; if IgM is found positive through rubella antibody testing, rubella can be confirmed and symptomatic treatment should be administered. There is no specific antiviral medication for the rubella virus.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is there a difference between urticaria and rubella?

Urticaria and rubella are quite different; rubella is a contagious disease caused by a viral infection, commonly seen in children. It can be transmitted through droplets and contact, and symptomatic treatment is usually adopted. In contrast, urticaria is an allergic skin disease with a still unclear and complex etiology, often treated with anti-allergy methods.

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What should you eat to recover quickly from rubella?

Rubella is a self-limiting disease, and generally, patients do not require treatment and can recover in about two weeks. However, if symptoms are significant and include fever and joint pain, it may be appropriate to consider using some antipyretic and pain-relief medications. Most patients can fully recover in about two weeks without needing hospital treatment, but appropriate isolation measures should be taken. In terms of diet, it is advisable to consume light, easily digestible food and avoid overly spicy and irritating foods. Generally, rest is recommended, and if appetite is poor, it is better to eat small, frequent meals and avoid fatigue.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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Symptoms of Rubella Virus Infection

After infection with the rubella virus, the disease that develops is rubella. The rubella virus can be transmitted through ordinary airborne droplets and respiratory routes, and it can also be transmitted through close contact between people. The typical clinical symptoms include fever, a rash all over the body, and swelling of the lymph nodes behind the ears and at the back of the head. The clinical symptoms are relatively mild, the course of the disease is short, and the prognosis is good. However, if a pregnant woman is infected during the early stages of pregnancy, it can lead to severe consequences such as fetal deformities. In terms of treatment, it mainly involves symptomatic treatment and rest, with most people fully recovering in about two weeks.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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Is the rubella virus easily contagious?

Rubella virus is relatively easy to contract. It can be transmitted through airborne droplets or through contact between people, so it's best to isolate oneself during an infection. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for rubella; management typically involves symptomatic treatment. Many patients with mild conditions can recover completely in about two weeks without treatment. Generally, the infection does not recur, and one usually gains immunity, preventing re-infection. After recovering from rubella, there are generally no significant sequelae.