<prompt> All of the following statements are true about congenital rubella except:It is diagnosed when the infant has IgM antibodies at birthIt is diagnosed when IgG antibodies persist for more than 6 monthsMost common congenital defects are deafness, cardiac malformation and cataractInfection after 16 weeks of gestation results in major congenital defects  <response>: Ans. is d i.e., Infection after 16 weeks of gestation results in major congenital defectsRef: Harrison, 18the, p. 1606; 19the, p. 1300 The most important factor in the pathogenicity of Rubella virus for the fetus is gestational age at the time of infection. In general, the earlier in pregnancy infection occurs, the greater the damage to the fetus. Maximum damage to the fetus occurs when infection acquired in the first trimester of pregnancy. Risk of damage to fetus by maternal rubella during pregnancy. Birth defects are uncommon if maternal infection occurs after the 20th week of gestation. 