Definitions for "rubella"
An acute but mild viral infection characterized by a dusky red cutaneous eruption resembling that of measles, but attended by only mild respiratory problems or fever; -- called also German measles. The infective virus is called Rubella virus, or Rubivirus. If contracted by a woman during the first several months of pregnancy, rubella may cause serious abnormalities in the fetus.
a contagious viral illness that causes tiredness, swollen lymph nodes, and a red, spotty rash. Most children are vaccinated against rubella. If a woman contracts rubella during pregnancy, her baby can develop severe birth defects, including mental retardation, hearing problems, blindness, and heart defects.
An infectious disease that, if contracted by the mother during the first three months of pregnancy, has a high risk of causing mental retardation and physical deformity in the child.