German measles, also known as rubella, is a contagious viral infection characterized by a mild rash and fever. It is caused by the rubella virus and is usually less severe than regular measles. The rash typically starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body, often accompanied by swollen lymph nodes. While German measles is generally mild in children, it can pose serious risks during pregnancy, potentially leading to congenital rubella syndrome in the fetus. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is the best way to prevent the disease and its complications.