Rubella is caused by infection with a virus. Infection is usually mild, but can cause serious damage to unborn babies. Immunisation is recommended for all children at 12 months and 18 months of age. All women planning pregnancy should check their immunity.
Anybody who is not immune (either from past infection or vaccination) is at risk of rubella.
Rubella can be difficult to diagnose because there are many other viruses that cause similar illnesses with a fever and a rash. Definite diagnosis requires a blood test.
Treatment for symptoms of rubella include, rest and plenty of fluids.
Pregnant women who have come in contact with a case of rubella should call their doctor for advice. Rubella is notifiable by laboratories in NSW under the Public Health Act. Statistics on the number of cases are tracked to monitor the impact of the immunisation program, and to identify outbreaks.
For further information please call your local public health unit on 1300 066 055