KLINIKFARMA – Rubella, often known as German measles, is one of the infectious diseases that can be prevented through vaccination. Although many people consider it a mild disease, rubella can have serious consequences, especially for pregnant women and the fetuses they are carrying. This article will discuss in depth about rubella, how the disease is spread, the impacts it causes, and the importance of vaccination as a preventive measure.
What is Rubella?
Introduction to Rubella
Rubella is an infectious disease caused by the rubella virus. This disease is generally characterized by the appearance of a red rash on the skin and a fever that is not too high. Rubella usually lasts for a short time and is considered a mild disease in children and adults. However, if a woman is infected with rubella during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, the risk to the fetus is very high.
How Does Rubella Spread?
Rubella Transmission
The rubella virus is spread through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus is highly contagious, so someone who has not been vaccinated or has never had rubella is very susceptible to infection.
Impact of Rubella
Rubella in General
In most cases, rubella causes only mild symptoms that include a red rash and a low-grade fever. Some people may experience swollen lymph nodes and joint pain.
Rubella in Pregnant Women
Rubella is especially dangerous for pregnant women because it can cause congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) in babies born. CRS can result in serious birth defects, including blindness, deafness, heart defects, and brain damage.
Rubella Prevention Through Vaccination
The Importance of Vaccination
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent rubella and SRC. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine has been shown to be effective in preventing the spread of these diseases. The vaccine is given in two doses, usually in childhood, and provides long-term immunity to all three diseases.
Vaccination Schedule
For full protection, children are recommended to receive two doses of the MMR vaccine. The first dose is given at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age. Vaccination is also recommended for adults who do not have evidence of immunity to rubella.
Vaccine Safety
The MMR vaccine is considered safe and effective. Common side effects are mild, such as a mild fever or redness and pain at the injection site. The benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks of these minor side effects.
Rubella is a serious and highly contagious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. While most cases of rubella are mild, the risk to pregnant women and their unborn babies is significant. The MMR vaccine offers effective protection against rubella, measles, and mumps. By following the recommended vaccination schedule, we can protect ourselves, our children, and our communities from the risk of these diseases. Let’s take proactive steps to prevent rubella through vaccination to safeguard the health of current and future generations.
