Rubella And Pregnancy

Question 1

If you suspect a case of rubella in pregnancy, what should you do?

Answer 1

Discuss with local health protection unit - they can advise on which type of investigations to perform for each individual case

Question 2

What is rubella also known as?

Answer 2

German measles

Question 3

If rubella is contracted during pregnancy, what is there a risk of?

Answer 3

Congenital rubella syndrome
Stillbirth
Miscarriage

Question 4

In the first 8-10 weeks is the risk of damage to fetus high or low?

Answer 4

High - 90%

Damage is rare after 16 weeks

Question 5

What is the incubation period?

Answer 5

14-21 days and individuals are infectious from 7 days before symptoms appear

Question 6

What features of congenital rubella syndrome are there?

Answer 6

Sensorineural deafness
Congenital cataracts 
CHD e.g PDA
Growth retardation 
Hepatosplenomegaly 
Purpuric skin lesions
Salt and pepper chorioretinitis 
Microphthalmia 
Cerebral palsy

Question 7

Should the MMR vaccine be given to pregnant women?

Answer 7

No

Question 8

Non immune mothers should be offered the vaccine when?

Answer 8

In post natal period

The vaccine is a weakened live vaccine