What is rubella?

Rubella is a common illness which mostly affects school age children. It is not the same as English measles which normally makes you more unwell than rubella.

What causes rubella?

It is caused by a virus which is passed from child to child by coughing or sneezing.

What are the symptoms of rubella?

Most people will develop a slight fever, rash, aching joints and swollen glands in the neck. For some people there will be no symptoms at all. As the symptoms are so mild it can be quite tricky to diagnose correctly. The only way to confirm the diagnosis is with a blood test.

What are the risks of rubella?

Women in the first three months of pregnancy who develop rubella have a very high risk of their child having serious health problems.

What is the treatment for rubella?

Treatment is aimed at reducing the symptoms and preventing the spread of infection. Paracetamol can be taken as directed for joint aches and fever. Drink plenty of clear fluids and rest until you feel well again.

Preventing the spread of infection

It is important to stay at home if diagnosed with rubella. Do not come into contact with anyone you know who may be in the early stages of pregnancy.

Children should be immunised against rubella. This is offered free in New Zealand for all children at ages 15 months and 4 to 5 years. It is given in combination with two other vaccines - as measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) - see Child immunisation.

Pregnancy and rubella

Pregnant women must be checked for rubella immunity - a routine blood test in early pregnancy. Even if the blood test carried out at a previous pregnancy proved immunity to rubella, the test must be repeated at each pregnancy.

If you think you might be pregnant and your immunity has not been tested, check with your doctor or practice nurse. If you are planning pregnancy, check whether you need to be immunised from rubella. When you get immunised, avoid getting pregnant for three months.

For further information and support talk to your doctor or practice nurse. To find out more about rubella vaccination, contact the Immunisation Advisory Centre (IMAC) - contact details below under 'Further information and support.'

Orignal material by everybody. Reviewed February 2005.