Rubella is a viral illness that most often presents as a self-limiting illness in children but can have devastating effects on the fetus when acquired during pregnancy. It was first described in the 1750s and is often referred to as “German measles” due to its characteristic rash that is similar to measles and the attention it received in German literature.
Suspicion of rubella infection is largely based on immune status and potential for exposure. Rubella is rare in countries with effective national immunisation programs, such as New Zealand. Most cases of rubella occur in nonimmune patients who either live in or have traveled to a country with rubella endemicity or a known outbreak. The virus is generally isolated from the pharynx one week before to two weeks after the rash.
The rubella virus causes German measles, a generally mild infection with a characteristic rash that can affect both children and adults. However, rubella infection can cause congenital anomalies (eg, hearing loss; cataracts); cardiac disease; and neurodevelopmental effects) if it occurs early in fetal life.
Microbiology - Virology
RUBP
Testing is batched daily Monday-Friday at approximately 9.30am, with results available from mid-afternoon. Urgent or weekend testing must be discussed with and approved by a Microbiologist
German measles - RNA
24 hours
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