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The Department of Health (DoH) noted a significant increase in laboratory-confirmed rubella cases across South Africa in 2024. According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), 10 137 cases were recorded between January and November 2024 – surpassing the 2023 figures by a significant margin.

Rubella, also known as German measles, is a highly contagious disease, especially among young children, but can be prevented with a vaccine.

Most cases in 2024 were recorded in Gauteng (2 603) and the Western Cape (1 338), with over 90% of infections occurring in children under the age of 15 years. The total number of cases was exceeded 8 300. How rubella spreads and its symptoms

Rubella spreads through droplets from coughing or sneezing by an infected person. Parents and caregivers should monitor children for symptoms such as:

• Rubella rash, a pinkish-red rash that starts on the face and spreads.

• Fever, sore throat, headache, and cough.

• Runny nose and swollen lymph nodes.

• Nausea and overall discomfort.

The symptoms usually appear two to three weeks after exposure.

Risks and complications

While rubella symptoms are generally mild, symptoms of rubella in adults can be more severe. The biggest risk is for pregnant women. A rubella infection in a pregnant woman, especially in the first trimester, can lead to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), causing birth defects in the unborn baby. That’s why early detection and prevention is critical.

Rubella treatment and prevention

There is no specific rubella treatment, but symptoms can be managed with rest, hydration, and fever control. The best protection is to take the vaccination, which is part of routine childhood immunisation. The DoH has urged anyone with suspected rubella symptoms to get medical attention, and for anyone at risk who hasn’t been vaccinated to do so as soon as possible.

Bestmed preventative care benefits

Bestmed encourages you, our members to stay vigilant and to ensure necessary vaccinations are up to date. Our Paediatric vaccine list covers rubella vaccinations from the age of 9 months to 12 years, included in the preventative care benefits on all options, except Beat1 (hospital plan). Download the full list of paediatric vaccines from the Bestmed Medicine Documents page on the website, here.

If you have any questions or are unsure of possible symptoms, please and contact your healthcare provider for more information.