First Aid

Please see the information below, which has been shared by the Department of Health concerning Rubella and recent changes.

• Rubella (also known as German measles) is a viral infectious disease that usually causes mild illness. However, infection during pregnancy, particularly in the early trimester, can result in miscarriage, stillbirth or severe birth defects from congenital rubella syndrome. Rubella is rare in Australia due to high vaccination coverage, but imported cases and outbreaks continue to occur internationally. From 28 October 2026, rubella and congenital rubella will become urgent notifiable conditions in Victoria.
• Rubella is rare in Australia and usually causes mild disease. However, infection during pregnancy can cause miscarriages, stillbirths and congenital rubella syndrome
• Immediate notification enables timely contact tracing and assessment of pregnant women who may have been exposed to rubella, including consideration of post-exposure prophylaxis, where indicated
• From 28 October 2026, rubella and congenital rubella will change from being ‘routine’ to ‘urgent’ notifiable conditions in Victoria under the Public Health and Wellbeing Regulations 2019. This means that medical practitioners and pathology services must notify rubella and congenital rubella upon initial diagnosis (suspected or confirmed) to the Department of Health immediately (as soon as practicable and within 24 hours) by calling 1300 651 160 (24/7). Pathology services must also provide written notification within 5 working days.

• Rubella and congenital rubella become urgent notifiable conditions | health.vic.gov.au
• Communicable Disease UnitDepartment of Health
• 1300 651 160 (24 hours)
• https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/rubella