I purchased a evergreen azalea. It has developed a serious leaf rust infestation. I got it over the summer and I am planning to transfer it to the spot I want to have it. Right now the plant is still on the burlap. I removed all the rusty leaves out and the plant is budding, so only the buds are present at this point.
Is there anything I could do to prevent the rust from coming back next year?

Also, is there anything I could apply to the plant to avoid this disease?

I will greatly appreciate help.
Thanks