A fetus who is exposed to the virus that causes German measles will develop damaged hearing

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The virus that causes German measles can cause congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) in a developing fetus, which can result in a range of birth defects including vision, hearing, and heart problems. However, the timing of exposure is critical for the development of hearing damage. Exposure during the first trimester (up to 11 weeks) of pregnancy carries the greatest risk for CRS-related hearing loss. Exposure later in pregnancy is still a concern but carries a lower risk of hearing damage. Therefore, the fetus who is exposed to the virus that causes German measles will develop damaged hearing, only if exposed at a particular stage during prenatal development.

A Fetus Who Is Exposed to the Virus That Causes