Rubella, also known as German measles, is an infectious viral illness that spreads through respiratory droplets - usually from a cough or sneeze. While often mild or even asymptomatic in many people, rubella can have serious implications, especially during pregnancy.

This blog explores how rubella spreads, common symptoms, potential complications, and supportive nutritional strategies to help the body recover.

How Is Rubella Transmitted?

Rubella is caused by the Rubella virus and spreads easily through direct contact or airborne droplets.

• Incubation period: Symptoms typically appear 14–23 days after exposure.
  
  
• Contagious window: An infected person may spread the virus one week before the rash appears and up to one week after — even without obvious symptoms.
  
  

Common Symptoms of Rubella

Rubella is generally mild, and around 50% of infected individuals may not show any symptoms. However, when they do occur, these are the most common:

• Low-grade fever – usually around 38.3°C (100.9°F) or less.
  
  
• Distinctive red rash – a pink/light red rash that starts on the face and spreads downward. Typically lasts about 3 days.
  
  
• Swollen lymph nodes – tenderness behind the ears or at the back of the neck.
  
  

Other symptoms – headache, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, joint pain (especially in young women).

Rubella in Pregnancy: The Risk of Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS)

The greatest danger of rubella is to unborn babies. If a pregnant woman is infected in the first trimester, the virus can cross the placenta and cause Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS).

CRS can lead to severe and lifelong complications, including:

• Deafness
  
  
• Cataracts and other eye defects
  
  
• Heart abnormalities
  
  
• Intellectual disabilities

• Liver and spleen damage

Treatment: Managing Symptoms with Supportive Care

There is no direct cure for rubella. Instead, the focus is on relieving symptoms and supporting the immune system. Functional nutrition can play a powerful role in helping the body recover.

1. Boost Immune-Supportive Nutrients

• Vitamin C – oranges, amla, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers.
  
  
• Zinc – lentils, chickpeas, beans, pumpkin seeds, whole grains.
  
  
• Vitamin D – salmon, sardines, and safe sun exposure.
  
  
• Vitamin A – carrots, sweet potatoes, mangoes.
  
  

2. Include Anti-Inflammatory Foods

• Omega-3 fatty acids – fatty fish, walnuts.
  
  
• Ginger & turmeric – add to teas, soups, curries.
  
  
• Antioxidants – berries and other colorful fruits.
  
  

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration worsens illness. Stick to:

• Water
  
  
• Warm herbal teas (ginger, peppermint, chamomile)
  
  
• Coconut water or light broths
  
  

4. Support Gut Health

• Probiotics: Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi.
  
  
• Prebiotics: Bananas, garlic, cooked onions — fuel for good gut bacteria.
  
  

5. Things to Limit or Avoid

• Sugar & refined carbs – suppress immunity.
  
  
• Processed foods – low in nutrients, high in inflammatory oils.
  
  
• Alcohol – dehydrates and weakens immune defenses.
  
  

Final Takeaway

Rubella is often mild, but its impact on pregnancy can be devastating. Understanding its transmission, early symptoms, and risk factors is crucial. While there’s no direct cure, supporting your immunity through good nutrition, hydration, and lifestyle choices can make recovery smoother.

If you’re looking to strengthen your immunity or need guidance on infection recovery, book a Free Functional Nutrition Consult with iThrive today.