What does fever feel like with rubella?

Rubella can cause a mild fever with sore throat, runny nose, red or irritated eyes and swollen glands around the neck or behind the ears. A fine rash may begin on the face and spread down the body, though symptoms vary and some people have few symptoms. Fever and rash can resemble other infections, so appearance alone cannot confirm rubella. This matters especially during pregnancy because rubella can harm an unborn baby.

Rest, drink fluids and record temperature and symptom changes. Avoid close contact with pregnant people until a clinician has advised you about possible infectiousness, and call ahead before attending a clinic if rubella is suspected. Do not share towels or drinks. Ask a pharmacist about suitable relief for discomfort, taking account of age, pregnancy, allergies and other medicines.

Contact a clinician promptly for fever with a new rash, particularly if you are pregnant, may be pregnant, or have had close contact with someone who is pregnant. Seek urgent help for breathing trouble, severe headache, confusion, fainting, dehydration or a rapidly worsening illness. Keep distance from vulnerable people while awaiting advice.

Ask whether testing or isolation advice is needed, when you can return to work or school, and what to do after pregnancy exposure. Mention vaccination history, rash timing, contact with anyone unwell and any possibility of pregnancy.