More about Rubella Prior to immunisation, rubella was a common disease of childhood. When someone has been in contact with the virus, it can two to three weeks to develop. If it does, they will generally feel unwell for the first five days, with swollen glands, and a light temperature or a sore throat. If a rash develops, it will start on the face, and spread downwards over the body and limbs, and this may cause pain and discomfort in the limbs - especially in women.
Some people have rubella, but show no symptoms at all.
Rubella is a relatively low-risk illness but can have a severe effect if it is contracted by a pregnant woman .