rubella is a viral infection which is usually mild
and which resolves spontaneously, with few possible
complications. However, should it occur in a
pregnant woman before 20 weeks of pregnancy, there is a
risk or miscarriage or for the child to be born with congenital
rubella syndrome (CRS). Fortunately, since the introduction
of routine immunisation with the measles, mumps and
rubella vaccine (MMR) in 1988, this complication now
rarely occurs. However, those who have missed out on this
protection are at risk of developing rubella. Therefore, it is
important that health professionals are alert to the possibility
and able to take the necessary action if rubella is suspected.
In the school setting this may be particularly relevant, as
members of staff or occasionally pupils may be pregnant
(Clinical Knowledge Summaries (CKS), 2013).