Rubella outbreak under watch
September 12, 2012
The Department of Health is monitoring a rubella outbreak in Japan, which has seen 1,419 cases reported since September 5.
The department is liaising with Japanese health authorities and the Japanese Consulate-General in Hong Kong.
It has contacted the travel industry to inform them of the situation.
Rubella, also known as German measles, is a highly infectious disease caused by the rubella virus. It can be transmitted by contact with infected people.
Infection during pregnancy can result in abnormal development of the foetus, especially during the first trimester.
Immunisation is the best way to prevent the disease.