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FAQ

What is rubella?

Page last updated 11 April 2022

Rubella is an infection caused by a virus. It is sometimes called German measles, although it is not related to measles itself.

People with rubella often get a skin rash and joint pain. In most people, rubella is a mild disease, but it can have severe consequences for an unborn baby. If a pregnant woman contracts rubella, her baby is at risk of severe and permanent birth defects or miscarriage/death.

Sources & Citations

1. Victoria State Government. Better Health Channel. Rubella. Available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/rubella (accessed 08 March 2022).

MAT-AU-2200804  Date of preparation March 2022

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