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Rubella in Japan (Update)

29 Jul 2013

As of July 17, 12 832 rubella cases have been reported in Japan during 2013. Numbers of rubella cases have been highest in Osaka, Tokyo Metropolis, Kanagawa, and Kagoshima Prefectures. The peak period for rubella is spring to summer in Japan. Reported cases have substantially increased over the last several months and are expected to continue to increase.

Advice for Travellers

Rubella infection has serious consequences for the unborn child if acquired by a woman during pregnancy. It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-15 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months, while unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves may consider vaccination if thought to be at risk. Two doses of MMR vaccine are required to give adequate protection.