Rubella Test: Why It Is Done
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Why It Is 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 indicates 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.
| Last updated: | September 11, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH |
| Reviewed By: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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