. Rubella is a viral infection caused by the rubella virus, often mild and self-limiting in children and adults, characterized by a maculopapular rash, fever, malaise, and lymphadenopathy, but can lead to severe complications during pregnancy.
. It is transmitted through inhalation of respiratory droplets and from mother to baby during pregnancy (Congenital Rubella Syndrome), leading to severe birth defects.
. Rubella IgM antibodies indicate a current or recent infection, while IgG antibodies confirm past infection or immunity, typically due to vaccination.