From 28 October 2026, rubella and congenital rubella will be classified as urgent notifiable conditions in Victoria. Doctors and pathology services must report suspected or confirmed cases to the Victorian Department of Health immediately by calling 1300 651 160. Pathology services must also submit written notifications within five working days.

Rubella, also known as German measles, is a viral infection that usually causes mild symptoms. However, infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth or serious birth defects known as congenital rubella syndrome.

Although rubella is uncommon in Australia because of high vaccination rates, cases and outbreaks continue to occur overseas.

The updated reporting rules aim to help health authorities identify cases quickly, trace contacts and assess pregnant women who may have been exposed to the virus.

People who have not received two doses of a rubella-containing vaccine or do not have evidence of immunity are at greater risk of infection. Travellers and people working in healthcare and childcare settings may also face increased exposure.

Symptoms can include a mild fever, rash, headache, runny nose, red eyes, swollen lymph nodes and joint pain. Adults, particularly women, may also experience joint inflammation.

Doctors are advised to consider rubella in patients with compatible symptoms and relevant travel or contact history. Laboratory testing, including PCR and blood tests for rubella antibodies, can help confirm the diagnosis.

Pregnant women who may have been exposed should receive urgent medical assessment. This may include immunity checks, blood tests and post-exposure prophylaxis where appropriate. Women planning a pregnancy are also advised to check their rubella immunity and receive vaccination if they are not immune.

Doctors must report suspected or confirmed cases as soon as possible and within 24 hours. They should also advise infected people to avoid contact with others, particularly pregnant women, while infectious. Cases should stay away from school, childcare and work until seven days after the rash begins or until fully recovered, whichever takes longer.

Pathology services must report relevant results immediately and provide written notification within five working days.

Rubella Reporting Requirements Tightened Across Victoria

Source: Victorian Department of Health