Measles and Rubella Risks During Pregnancy

Q: Measles and Rubella Risks During Pregnancy

Hello： If you have had German measles (rubella) or measles in the past, there is still a possibility of reinfection. <br>If you are pregnant and concerned about related infection issues, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect any symptoms of reinfection

Measles and rubella issues?

Dear Doctor,
I would like to ask you a question.
I am currently six months pregnant, and I recently saw news reports about cases of measles and rubella.
When I was a child, I did not receive the relevant vaccinations and contracted measles and chickenpox once each.
I also had measles again in elementary school, which kept me at home for over a month.
In middle school, I contracted rubella and chickenpox once each.
Throughout my schooling, I seemed to catch whatever was going around in my class.
My question is, can I get these diseases again after having had them before? During my pregnancy, I sometimes want to go out and travel, but I am concerned about these issues.
Thank you!

Kelly, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/03/12

Dr. Dong Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: If you have had German measles (rubella) or measles in the past, there is still a possibility of reinfection.
If you are pregnant and concerned about related infection issues, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect any symptoms of reinfection.
Try to minimize your exposure to crowded areas to reduce the chances of reinfection.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2011/03/12

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the risks associated with measles and rubella during pregnancy, especially considering your current condition of being six months pregnant. It’s understandable to be concerned about these infectious diseases, particularly given the recent news reports about outbreaks.

To begin with, it is important to note that both measles and rubella can pose significant risks to pregnant women and their unborn children. Measles, caused by the measles virus, is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. For pregnant women, contracting measles can result in miscarriage, preterm labor, or low birth weight. Rubella, also known as German measles, is particularly concerning during the first trimester of pregnancy, as it can cause congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) in the fetus. CRS can lead to severe birth defects, including heart problems, hearing impairment, and developmental delays.

Regarding your history of having had measles and rubella, it is generally believed that once a person has contracted these diseases, they develop immunity against them. This means that it is unlikely for you to contract measles or rubella again. However, there are exceptions, and it is not impossible to experience a reinfection, especially if your immune system is compromised.

Given your past infections, you may have some level of immunity, but it is crucial to confirm your immunity status through blood tests, which can check for the presence of antibodies against these viruses. If you are found to be non-immune, vaccination is typically recommended before pregnancy; however, live vaccines like the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are contraindicated during pregnancy. Therefore, if you are found to be non-immune, it would be advisable to receive the vaccine postpartum.

In terms of your current pregnancy and the desire to travel, it is essential to weigh the risks. If you are in an area with reported outbreaks of measles or rubella, it may be wise to avoid crowded places and ensure that you are practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. If you do decide to travel, consider consulting with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your specific situation.

Additionally, it is important to stay updated on your prenatal care and discuss any concerns with your obstetrician. They can provide guidance on how to protect yourself and your baby from infections during this critical time.

In summary, while your history of measles and rubella suggests that you may have immunity, it is prudent to confirm this through testing. Be cautious about potential exposure to these diseases, especially during your pregnancy, and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your travel plans and any other concerns you may have.

Wishing you a healthy pregnancy and a safe delivery!
Best regards.

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