Rubella Vaccination, 4 Years

Rubella, also know as 'German Measles', is caused by the virus, Rubivirus. The main symptoms of rubella are a red rash, swollen glands and, occasionally, joint pain.

Rubella is generally a mild disease, with about half the people infected not having any obvious symptoms. However, rubella infection during pregnancy can lead to serious abnormalities in the developing baby.  These can include deafness, blindness, heart defects and intellectual disabilities.

Rubella is spread when someone comes into direct contact with mucous or saliva droplets of an infected person.  Rubella can also be spread when someone swallows, or breathes in, cough or sneeze droplets from an infected person.

People infected with rubella can spread the virus for up to 1 week before until 4 days after the rash appears.

Please speak to your doctor if you are concerned about your child's risk of rubella.

Anyone who is not immune to rubella is at risk of infection.  Many adolescent and young adult males may not have been vaccinated, and would therefore be at high risk of infection. Unborn babies whose mothers have low or no immunity are also at risk.

Other people may be at risk of rubella infection. Please speak to your doctor regarding your or your child's individual circumstances.

Rubella is generally a mild disease, with about half the people infected not having any obvious symptoms. Symptoms, if they do appear, generally occur 14 to 21 days after infection, and may include a red rash, swollen glands and, occasionally, joint pain.  Symptoms are short-lived, normally lasting 2-3 days. Complications may occur, but are rare.

In Australia, vaccination against rubella is provided in a combined vaccine that also protects against mumps and measles.

Rubella vaccination is recommended as part of routine childhood immunisation. It is provided free to children as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP) and consists of 2 doses, usually given at 12 months and 4 years of age.

It is important for children to complete the recommended course of vaccinations to help protect them from catching, and spreading the disease.

Other individuals may also be at risk of rubella. Please discuss your individual circumstances with your doctor.

A range of side effects may be experienced following vaccination.  Discuss any concerns you have with your healthcare professional and inform them if you, or a member of your family experience any side effects as you may need treatment.