Why is a rubella test done?
A test for rubella is done to find out if:
- A woman who is or wants to become pregnant is immune to rubella.
- A recent infection was caused by the rubella virus. The presence of IgM antibodies means a current or recent infection.
- A person has been vaccinated against rubella. The presence of IgG antibodies means immunity received through either vaccination or a past infection.
- Health professionals who are in contact with pregnant women have had rubella. A health professional who has not had rubella may need to be vaccinated to prevent the risk of spreading rubella to a pregnant woman.
Some babies born with birth defects may be tested for congenital rubella.
How is a rubella test done?
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
How do you prepare for a rubella test?
In general, there's nothing you have to do before this test, unless your doctor tells you to.
What do the results of a rubella test mean?
Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.
| Positive: | A positive rubella IgG test result is good—it means that you are immune to rubella and cannot get the infection. This is the most common rubella test done. |
| Negative: | This means you are not immune to rubella. If you are a woman thinking about getting pregnant, talk with your doctor about getting a rubella vaccine before pregnancy. |
A test for rubella IgM antibodies is done only if the doctor suspects that you have a current rubella infection.
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