Congenital rubella syndrome.

Rubella (German measles) is a common viral infection in children and adults. It is usually a mild disease with few complications and resultant sequelae. Maternal infection with rubella, however, can cause severe congenital defects, known as congenital rubella syndrome. Although the incidence of rubella has declined, about 15 percent of women of childbearing age remain at risk for rubella. About one third of fetuses are infected from maternal rubella infection. The risk of fetal damage is directly related to the occurrence of the maternal infection with greater risk present in the first trimester of pregnancy. The most important area of primary health care delivery by the nurse clinician is prevention. Routine rubella serologic testing and immunization, if required, of women of childbearing age is essential to the elimination of congenital rubella syndrome.