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Hantavirus Antibody (IgG and IgM) by Immunoassay

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects antibodies to the hantavirus, a virus that can cause severe respiratory illness. It helps diagnose hantavirus infection, often following exposure to infected rodents or contaminated environments.

Quick summary

["This test may be used if you’ve had recent exposure to rodents or symptoms of hantavirus pneumonia."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60264-9
Short code
Hantavirus Ab Titr Ser
Synonyms
Hantavirus Ab Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve recently been in an area with known hantavirus risk (e.g., rural areas, storage facilities) or if you’ve experienced flu-like symptoms followed by shortness of breath, fever, or fatigue. It’s also used in outbreak investigations or after potential exposure to infected rodents.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw, and the sample will be sent to a lab for antibody testing. Results are typically available within a few days.

How the Test Works

Blood is drawn and tested using an immunoassay method to identify antibodies (IgG and IgM) against hantavirus proteins. IgM antibodies appear early in infection, while IgG antibodies develop later.

Possible Results and Interpretation

A positive result indicates exposure to the virus, but it doesn’t always mean an active infection. False positives can occur, so further testing or clinical correlation may be needed. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found at the time of testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Hantavirus Antibody Panel

Frequently asked questions

How long will it take to get my results?
Results are usually available within 2–5 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during a follow-up visit.
Can I get hantavirus from a blood test?
No, you cannot contract hantavirus from a blood test. The virus is spread through contact with infected rodent urine, feces, or saliva, not through medical testing.
What if my test is positive but I don’t have symptoms?
A positive antibody test means you’ve been exposed to the virus, but you may not yet have symptoms. Some people develop illness weeks or months later. Follow-up testing or medical evaluation may be recommended if symptoms arise.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy