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Rabies Virus Antibody Screening, Serum

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

This test checks for antibodies to the rabies virus in your blood, helping determine if your immune system has been exposed to the virus.

Quick summary

["Rabies antibodies help protect against future infection if exposed to rabies."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30553-2
Short code
RABV Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
RABV Ab Ser Ql
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

What Does This Test Measure?

The test detects the presence of rabies virus antibodies in your serum. Antibodies are proteins your immune system produces in response to exposure to a foreign substance, such as a virus. If antibodies are found, it suggests your body has encountered the rabies virus before.

Why Might You Need This Test?

You may need this test if you’ve been exposed to rabies (e.g., through a bite or scratch from an animal suspected of being rabid) or if you’re at higher risk of exposure, such as traveling to areas with rabies outbreaks or working in animal care.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum portion is then tested using an immunoassay method to detect rabies-specific antibodies.

What Are the Next Steps?

If antibodies are detected, further testing (like confirmation) may be done to ensure accuracy. If no antibodies are found, you may need additional precautions if exposed to rabies.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Rabies Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

Could this test show false results?
Yes, rare false negatives or positives can occur, especially in early or late stages of exposure. Your healthcare provider will interpret results in context with your exposure history.
What if my test is positive?
A positive result means your body has likely been exposed to rabies before. You may need follow-up testing or medical advice to assess risk and next steps, especially if you’ve recently been exposed.
How soon after exposure should I get tested?
Ideally, testing should be done as soon as possible after exposure, but results may take several days to weeks to confirm. Seek medical attention immediately after exposure, even if you’re unsure about testing.
  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