Rubella is a contagious illness caused by a virus. Rubella is also known as ‘German measles’, but it is a different illness to measles.
Rubella is not usually dangerous. But babies of people who catch rubella during pregnancy can be seriously affected with complications such as deafness, blindness, and heart disease.
Rubella is now rare in Australia due to childhood immunisation programs. Outbreaks can still occur among people who are not immune.
A virus causes rubella. Rubella spreads through contact with an infected person’s breathing fluids, for example, if they cough or sneeze nearby. Rubella can also spread through direct contact with an infected person.
Red rash, mild fever, headache, swollen glands, runny nose, joint pain, sore red eyes and enlarged lymph glands in the neck and behind the ears. Some people with rubella do not have symptoms at all. For others, infection can cause a mild illness with fever and a red rash.
Rubella does not usually cause complications except in unborn babies. In very rare cases, rubella may cause joint inflammation (arthritis) or neurological problems.
The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is available and offered to all children.
Women should check if they are immune to German measles, preferably before trying to get pregnant or during the first antenatal check.
If they are found not to be immune, they will be offered a vaccination after the birth of their baby.
For detailed information, including timings, refer to the WA Immunisation Schedule or speak to a health professional.
