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CONGENITAL RUBELLA SYNDROME

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) is a significant public health concern globally, affecting infants born to mothers who contract rubella during pregnancy. The condition is characterized by a range of severe congenital anomalies that can result from the teratogenic effects of the rubella virus, particularly during the first trimester of pregnancy (Alkhateeb et al., 2020). The virus can cross the placental barrier, leading to various complications such as cardiac defects, ophthalmic abnormalities, and auditory impairments in the newborn (Patel et al., 2021). The prevalence of CRS has been significantly reduced in many developed countries due to the widespread use of the rubella vaccine, which is part of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccination schedule (Jiang et al., 2019). However, in regions with lower vaccination coverage, CRS remains a pressing issue.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that approximately 100,000 children are born with CRS annually, primarily in developing countries (WHO, 2020). The syndrome has profound implications not only for the affected individuals and their families but also for healthcare systems and society at large. Children with CRS often require extensive medical care, early intervention, and lifelong support, leading to increased healthcare costs and a significant burden on families (Khan et al., 2021). Moreover, CRS is associated with substantial psychosocial challenges for families, who may face stigma and social isolation due to the visible effects of the syndrome (Mok et al., 2018).

The impact of CRS extends beyond the individual, affecting population health and economic stability. The presence of CRS in a community can strain healthcare resources, diverting attention and funds from other critical health initiatives (Doherty et al., 2019). In response, public health initiatives focusing on improving vaccination coverage and maternal education regarding the risks of rubella during pregnancy are essential for preventing CRS (Marques et al., 2020). Such measures are vital, particularly in areas where vaccine hesitancy persists, or access to vaccination services is limited.

Despite the global efforts to control rubella, significant challenges remain in eliminating CRS, especially in low- and middle-income countries where healthcare infrastructure may be inadequate. Recent studies have highlighted the need for improved surveillance systems to monitor rubella vaccination coverage and CRS incidence (Omer et al., 2019). Furthermore, awareness campaigns targeting women of childbearing age are crucial in promoting vaccination and reducing the risk of

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