What is Rubella?
Rubella is a viral infection that is spread from person to person via small drops of fluid. These are often ejected when a person coughs or sneezes. Rubella, also known as German Measles, is a highly infectious disease that can cause serious symptoms if caught. Rubella is of greatest concern in children and pregnant women. Most infected persons develop a fever and a rash, however in some pregnant women, the infection can lead to miscarriage, foetal death or infants born with congenital malformations.
What are the symptoms of a Rubella infection?
Rubella most frequently leads to fevers and a distinctive rash. The rash appears as a dense pattern of red spots of bumps frequently covering the face, neck and torso. Additional symptoms of a rubella infection can include:
- Fever
- Rash
- Sore throat
- Pink eye
- Feeling unwell
- Joint pains
- Headaches
- Swollen lymph nodes
How can a Rubella infection be tested?
Rubella is diagnosed by detecting the antibodies your immune system will make when you are infected with the rubella virus. The first antibodies that your immune system will make are the IgM antibodies. These antibodies start to appear in the blood shortly after the rash starts to fade. Typically, IgG antibodies will also start to appear shortly after the first appearance of the IgM antibodies and together are indicative of an acute or active rubella infection.
Rubella IgM and IgM tests are useful are useful as they help to differentiate between active infection and immunity brought on by vaccination. Typically, if you are negative for IgM antibodies, and IgG antibodies are >10IU/ml, you are immune to Rubella through vaccination and any illness producing a rash will not be rubella. If you are positive for both IgG and IgM antibodies, then the serology testing should be repeated within 3-4 weeks or sooner if any symptoms start to develop.
What happens if my rubella test results are positive?
If your rubella infection test results are positive, suggestive of a new and active infection, you should see a doctor. A positive IgG and IgM result indicates that you are infected with rubella and that you require medical attention, particularly if you are pregnant. Better2Know can organise private consultations across the country with our network of skilled doctors.
How can I book my rubella infection test?
To book your test, please click "Get Started" or call Better2Know on the number above. A member of our dedicated Patient Services team will be available to answer any questions and organise your booking. Better2Know provides a wide range of screens and health tests across the country. For your convenience, our welcoming and experienced team are available 24/7.
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