Rubella in a returned traveller

[Virus-induced exanthems in returning travellers]

Dermatological diseases are among the most common travel-associated diseases. In particular, viral infections not only with tropical and subtropical pathogens, but also with viruses common in Germany, which are often accompanied by skin rashes and general symptoms, are of great importance. In addition to an accurate travel history and possible risk exposures, epidemiological information on country-specific risks in combination with molecular and serological analyses is helpful in making the correct diagnosis. This article provides an overview of important virus-induced exanthems in returned travellers.

Rubella Seropositivity in Pregnant Women After Vaccination Campaign in Brazil's Federal District

Rubella is an acute viral disease that usually does not generate sequels; however, in pregnant women the infection can cause serious abnormalities to fetuses, which are collectively called congenital rubella syndrome. In Brazil, population immunization was started in 1992, but few epidemiological studies have been conducted to assess vaccination coverage and seroconversion since then. The aim of this work is to evaluate the seropositivity of pregnant women to rubella virus after vaccination campaign was carried out in 2008. Serological tests for rubella diagnosis were performed in 87 pregnant women who attended the University of Brasilia Hospital, Federal District, Brazil. Antirubella IgG antibodies were detected in 83 out of 87 pregnant women (95.4%), with an age-independent seroprevalence. Only one woman was positive in IgM serological tests. Our data suggest high levels of vaccination coverage and antirubella immunization in the Brazil Federal District population.