What is rubella?
Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious viral infection caused by the rubella virus. It is often spread through the air or by close contact.
It often causes mild symptoms, including a rash that usually starts on your face and moves down your body. However, if contracted during pregnancy, rubella can potentially lead to miscarriage or congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), which can cause severe birth defects in unborn babies. CRS is the most serious form of rubella, as it can cause skin, hearing, vision, heart and brain problems in newborns.
How do I get vaccinated for rubella?
Rubella vaccination is provided as part of the combined measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
The MMR vaccine is considered a 'combination vaccine' that is given as one shot for a series of two doses. It is usually administered by injection in the upper arm or thigh. The MMR vaccine can be administered by itself or together with other vaccines (e.g., varicella, the chickenpox vaccine).
What is the MMR vaccine for?
MMR vaccines help protect against measles, mumps, and rubella. Measles, mumps, and rubella are infectious diseases that spread easily from one person to another through the air and can lead to serious health complications.
The MMR vaccine contains weakened live viruses, but these live viruses are unable to cause measles, mumps, or rubella in healthy people.
What happens if I don't get my MMR vaccine?
If you don't get the MMR vaccine, you may be more susceptible to contracting measles, mumps and rubella.
The measles virus causes rash, cough, runny nose, eye irritation, and fever. It can lead to ear infections, pneumonia (lung infection), seizures (jerking and staring), brain damage, and death.
The mumps virus causes fever, headache, muscle pain, loss of appetite, and swollen salivary glands. It can lead to deafness, meningitis (infection of the brain and spinal cord covering), painful swelling of the testicles or ovaries, and, in rare cases, infertility.
The rubella virus causes rash, arthritis (mostly in women) and mild fever. If a woman gets rubella during pregnancy, it may lead to miscarriage or birth defects in the newborn.
If you have been experiencing any symptoms and are concerned with the possibility of it being rubella, it is best to consult a doctor or specialist. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.
What is the difference between rubella and measles?
Rubella and measles are not the same. They are different viral infections. Although they both cause similar symptoms such as rashes and fevers, they are caused by different viruses and present unique complications.
Rubella is particularly dangerous for pregnant women because it can lead to CRS, whereas measles can result in severe respiratory and neurological complications.
Who should get the MMR vaccine?
As part of the Singapore National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS), all children should receive two doses from age 12 months onwards, at least 4 weeks apart.
Immunisation against measles is required by law. This vaccination is also required for school enrolment.
As part of the Singapore National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS), adults (18 years or older) who have not been vaccinated or lack evidence of past infection or immunity should receive two doses.
Immunisation is especially important for those planning pregnancies, travelling to areas with a higher risk of measles, mumps, and rubella, or working in healthcare.
Who cannot get an MMR vaccine?
People with severe allergies to any vaccine component should not receive the MMR vaccine. However, if you are pregnant, have active untreated tuberculosis, have a medical history of seizures and bleeding disorders, or have a weakened immune system due to certain medications or treatments such as HIV, it is best to consult your healthcare provider if you can receive the vaccine.
What are the side effects of the rubella vaccine?
Most people experience only mild side effects, such as:
Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
Mild fever
Mild rash
Feeling faint
These effects typically subside on their own. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
How much does an MMR vaccine cost?
In Singapore, the MMR vaccine is available at most clinics and is often provided free or at a subsidised rate for children as part of the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule. For adults, prices typically range from SGD 9 to SGD 70 per dose depending on the clinic and if you qualify for government subsidies.
FAQ
When is the rubella vaccine given?
The rubella vaccine is given as part of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose at 1 year old and the second dose at 18 months (for children born after July 1, 2024) or at 3 years and 4 months (for those born earlier).
Is the rubella vaccine only for females?
No, the rubella vaccine is recommended for both males and females to prevent the spread of the virus and protect those who cannot be vaccinated, including pregnant women and babies.
What are the five symptoms of rubella?
Common symptoms of rubella include:
Mild fever
Rash (starting on the face and spreading)
Swollen lymph nodes
Runny nose
Headache
Can a child get rubella if vaccinated?
The MMR vaccine is highly effective, with two doses providing at least 97% protection against rubella. However, no vaccine is 100% effective, so rare cases may still occur.
Can I get pregnant after the rubella vaccine?
You should avoid becoming pregnant for at least one month after receiving the MMR vaccine. If you are planning a pregnancy, check your immunity and get vaccinated if necessary before conceiving.
At what age is the rubella vaccine given?
The first dose is given at 1 year old, and the second dose at 18 months (for children born after 1 July 2024) or at 3 years 4 months (for those born earlier).
Are Singaporeans vaccinated against rubella?
Yes, rubella vaccination is included in Singapore’s National Childhood Immunisation Schedule as part of the MMR vaccine, ensuring high coverage among children.
Do adults need the rubella vaccine?
Adults who have not been vaccinated or are unsure of their vaccination status should receive the MMR vaccine, especially women of childbearing age, healthcare workers, and those travelling to areas with higher risk.
Do I need the rubella vaccine before pregnancy?
Yes, it is important for women to ensure they are immune to rubella before becoming pregnant to prevent congenital rubella syndrome. A simple blood test can check immunity, and vaccination should be completed at least one month before conception.
The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.