FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) – Health officials have confirmed that a Texas Christian University student has contracted the first known case of rubella in Texas since 2004.
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported that Tarrant County officials are working to notify about 70 students who may have had contact with the unidentified student.
The student had recently traveled in a region known to have rubella cases. Lab tests confirmed the case Wednesday.
Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious disease caused by a virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says infection is usually mild with fever and rash. The virus is spread through coughing or sneezing.
It can prove dangerous for pregnant women who are not immune, leading to birth defects or miscarriage.
People who have received an MMR vaccine are immune.