The last major rubella epidemic in the United States was in 1964-65. An estimated 12½ million people got the disease, including 20,000 babies born with congenital rubella syndrome. This epidemic cost the country an estimated $1.5 billion.

The Disease

When children get rubella, it is usually a mild disease, with a slight fever that lasts for about 24 hours, and a rash on the face and neck that lasts two or three days.

(more about the symptoms and way its spread)

The Immunization

Rubella vaccine was first licensed in the U.S. in 1969, and the vaccine we use today was licensed in 1979. It is a live, attenuated (weakened) vaccine.

(more about the immunization and side effects)

Vaccine Recommendations

• AAP: Age for Routine Administration of the Second Dose of
  Measles–Mumps–Rubella Vaccine
• CDC: Measles, Mumps, and Rubella -- Vaccine Use and Strategies for Elimination of Measles, Rubella, and Congenital Rubella Syndrome and Control of Mumps (Exit Site)

Quick Facts - What You Need to Know

• Why get vaccinated?
• Who should get MMR vaccine and when?
• Some people should not get MMR vaccine or should wait
• What are the risks from MMR vaccine?
• What if there is a moderate or severe reaction?

Other Resources

• CDC Rubella page (Exit Site)
• Immunization Action Coalition Rubella page (Exit Site)
• National Network for Immunization Information Rubella page (Exit Site)