Rubella Virus - IgG

Also known as German Measles - IgG

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation required

Understanding Rubella Virus - IgG

What is Rubella Virus - IgG?

Rubella virus IgG, also known as a 3-day measles test, is done to determine the presence of rubella antibodies and detect a recent or past rubella infection. Rubella is a viral infection caused by the rubella virus and can spread very easily through close contact and even air. Our immune system produces two kinds of antibodies (IgG and IgM) in response to the antigens of the Rubella Virus. Rubella IgG is an antibody that stays for a lifetime in the blood.

The doctor may prescribe this test if you show symptoms like red or pink rashes, mild fever, muscle pain, and aching joints. If the infection occurs in the first three months of pregnancy, the fetus might get affected & can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital rubella syndrome (CRS).

What is Rubella Virus - IgG used for?

The Rubella Virus - IgG test is done:

As a screening test in pregnancy
In case of symptoms of rubella such as fever and rash
In the case of newborns showing abnormal signs of development or birth defects
To detect recent or past rubella infection

Interpreting Rubella Virus - IgG results

Interpretations

Result in %	Avidity
< 30	Low
30 - 40	Equivocal
> 40	High

Reference range may vary from lab to lab*

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rubella Virus - IgG

Frequently Asked Questions about Rubella Virus - IgG

Q. Is there any preparation required before the test?

Inform the doctor about the medications you may be taking. No other specific preparations are usually required before this test.

Q. How many types of rubella antibodies can be detected by the lab tests?

Two types of rubella antibodies can be detected by lab tests which include IgM and IgG. IgM antibody is the first one to appear in response to initial exposure to the rubella virus. It rises to peak in the blood within about 7 to 10 days after infection and then drops down after a few weeks. However, in case of newborns this antibody can be detected for a longer period of time. Once IgM is in the blood the second IgG rubella antibody starts to appear. This antibody stays for life and provides protection against re-infection. If IgG antibodies are detected in the blood, it indicates a recent or past rubella infection. Also, it is indicative that the person has received rubella vaccine.

Q. When is Rubella Virus - IgG test advised?

The Rubella Virus - IgG test is advised in women who are planning to conceive or are already pregnant. The newborns may also have to take the test if the mother has been exposed to rubella infection. Along with that, this test is recommended for babies with birth defects (reason could be rubella infection), persons having symptoms of rubella virus infection, students starting college, and healthcare workers exposed to rubella virus infection and are not vaccinated for the same.

Q. How is the blood sample taken?

The healthcare provider takes a blood sample from the arm. The site from where the blood is to be withdrawn is cleaned with a swab of rubbing alcohol. This is then followed by inserting a small needle which has a tube attached to it for collecting blood. Once the sufficient blood for analysis is withdrawn, the needle is removed. The site is then covered with a gauze pad.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the withdrawal of blood sample procedure?

As such there is no risk but in few cases, bruising, bleeding, and infection at the puncture site can be seen. In very few cases, there can be swelling of the vein after the blood is withdrawn.

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