Key facts Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious illness caused by a virus The main symptom of rubella is a spotty rash that starts on the face or neck and spreads to the rest of the body. Rubella is usually a mild illness that gets better in about a week, but it can be serious for pregnant women The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is effective in preventing the disease Rubella is most often seen during the late winter and spring. Overview Rubella is a contagious disease caused by a virus. It is also known as German measles or three-day measles, although it is not related to measles. Although it is usually a mild illness that gets better within a week, it can be dangerous for pregnant women and there are thought to be about 100,000 cases of congenital rubella syndrome every year. Rubella is easily spread through coughs and sneezes. Rubella is preventable through vaccination.…