Which description correctly defines rubella?

• A. A viral infection characterized by a low-grade fever, swollen glands, inflamed eyes, and a fine, pink rash
• B. A bacterial infection causing severe diarrhea
• C. A fungal infection of the skin
• D. An autoimmune disease causing joint pain

Answer: (A)

Rubella is a viral infection. The description fits the typical course: a low-grade fever, swollen glands (lymphadenopathy), and a fine, pink rash that usually begins on the face and then spreads downward. The term “inflamed eyes” can appear with viral illnesses, but the hallmark here is the combination of mild fever, lymph node swelling, and a delicate pink rash, which points to rubella rather than other types of infections. The other options describe conditions that are not viral rubella—bacterial diarrhea, fungal skin infection, or an autoimmune joint disease—so they don’t match this illness. Rubella is vaccine-preventable and is especially important to consider in pregnancy due to risks to the fetus.