This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: None, Subject name: Social & Preventive Medicine
Risk of the damage of fetus by maternal rubella is maximum if mother gets infected in 
Select and explain. 
A. 20-24 weeks of pregnancy, B. 24-28 weeks of pregnancy, C. 32-36 weeks of pregnancy, D. 6-12 weeks of pregnancy
D: 6-12 weeks of pregnancy
Answer: D: 6-12 weeks of pregnancy 
Explanation: Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS):

CRS is said to have occurred if:

– Infant has IgM rubella antibodies shortly after birth, or
– IgG antibodies persist for more than 6 months

Major determinant of extent of fetal infection in CRS: Gestational age at which fetal transmission occurs,

– Infection in I trimester: MOST DISASTROUS TIME
1. Abortions
2. Still births
3. Skin lesions: blueberry muffin lesions
4. ‘Triad of Congenital Rubella Syndrome’
i. Sensorineural deafness
ii. Congenital heart defects (MC is PDA)
iii. Cataracts
– Infection in early part of II Trimester: Deafness (only)
– Infection after 16 weeks POG: No major abnormalities
Risk of fetal damage in CRS: