Rubella in Poland

26 Jul 2017

Rubella continues to be transmitted in Poland. Between June 2016 and the end of May 2017 there have been 716 cases, was with incidence around 9 times that of Europe as a whole.

Recommendations for Travellers

This disease is still common in much of Asia, Africa, the Indian sub-continent and South America. More recently there have been outbreaks of rubella in Poland and  Japan. The risk is greater when living or working with local people or travelling for large gatherings (e.g. sporting and music events).

The two vaccines that protect against rubella are combined with measles and mumps (MMR). Currently used vaccines in the UK are: M-M-RVAXPRO and Priorix. MMR vaccine is usually given to children as part of the national childhood schedule, in infancy and prior to starting school. Two doses of vaccine give long-lasting protection against all three diseases.

Individuals should ensure that they have received two doses of MMR prior to travel to areas where the risk of rubella is high. Those who were born between 1980 and 1990 may not have received two doses of MMR vaccine. Individuals born between this time should check with their G.P. to ensure that they have received vaccination. Prior infection with rubella will provide lifelong immunity against that particular disease.

• View the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for M-M-RVAXPRO
• View the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for Priorix

 For further information see Rubella.