Rubella

Rubella is a mild febrile viral disease with a diffuse maculopapular rash which is difficult to distinguish from the rash caused by measles. Rubella is caused by a togavirus.

Rubella occurs throughout the world and is transmitted by sneezing, coughing or direct contact with respiratory secretions.

The Illness

Rubella can cause general symptoms such as the common cold and conjunctivitis. In pregnancy the infection (maternal rubella) can result in miscarriage or multiple birth defects (congenital rubella syndrome) such as deafness, cardiac abnormalities, cataracts and other eye defects.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment available.

Recommendations for Travellers

This disease is still common in much of Asia, Africa, the Indian sub-continent and South America. More recently there have been outbreaks of rubella in Romania and  Japan. The risk is greater when living or working with local people or travelling for large gatherings (e.g. sporting and music events).

The two vaccines that protect against rubella are combined with measles and mumps (MMR). Currently used vaccines in the UK are: M-M-RVAXPRO and Priorix. MMR vaccine is usually given to children as part of the national childhood schedule, in infancy and prior to starting school. Two doses of vaccine give long-lasting protection against all three diseases.

Individuals should ensure that they have received two doses of MMR prior to travel to areas where the risk of rubella is high. Those who were born between 1980 and 1990 may not have received two doses of MMR vaccine. Individuals born between this time should check with their G.P. to ensure that they have received vaccination. Prior infection with rubella will provide lifelong immunity against that particular disease.

Book your travel clinic appointment today to find out whether it is necessary for your travels.

©Information courtesy of Fit for Travel – a public access website provided by the NHS (Scotland)