KEY POINTS
- Scientists discovered two viruses related to the rubella virus in animals
- The findings suggest that rubella virus possibly originated in animals
- Researchers are now trying to determine whether the rubella vaccine could be effective in all three viruses
Two research teams have found the first known relatives of the rubella virus. The findings provide clues regarding the origin of the virus, which has remained a mystery for years.
Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious disease caused by an airborne virus that has been known to be the only member of its virus family. It had not been found in animals. Although rubella disease was first described in 1814 and the rubella virus was first isolated in 1962, the actual origin of the virus and the disease remained a mystery.
Most people who get infected by the virus experience mild symptoms such as a low-grade fever,