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Rubella Antibody, Serum (IgG and IgM)

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

This blood test checks for antibodies against rubella (German measles), a viral infection that can cause serious complications in pregnant women or newborns if contracted during pregnancy.

Quick summary

["Knowing your rubella antibody levels helps determine immunity or exposure risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
51931-4
Short code
RUBV Ab Ser IA-aCnc
Synonyms
RUBV Ab Ser IA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 Matters

Rubella is a contagious virus spread through respiratory droplets. While mild in adults, it can lead to severe birth defects if a pregnant person gets infected. This test helps confirm whether you’ve already had rubella or been vaccinated, protecting you and your baby from future risks.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The lab tests your serum for rubella-specific antibodies (IgG and IgM), which your immune system produces after exposure or vaccination. IgG antibodies indicate long-term immunity, while IgM suggests recent infection.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications that might affect blood tests. Avoid heavy meals 1–2 hours before the draw to minimize discomfort.

What the Results Mean

High levels of IgG antibodies suggest you’ve had rubella or been vaccinated. IgM antibodies alone may indicate recent infection. If results are unclear, your doctor may repeat the test or order additional tests.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Rubella Antibodies

Frequently asked questions

If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy, rubella antibody testing is crucial to rule out immunity and prevent congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), which can cause hearing loss, heart defects, and intellectual disabilities in babies.
If your test shows no rubella antibodies, you may need vaccination (if eligible) or further testing to confirm immunity status.
If you’re unsure about your vaccination history, this test can help determine if you’ve been exposed to rubella recently.
If you’ve had symptoms like fever, rash, or joint pain, this test may help confirm rubella infection (though other viruses can cause similar symptoms).
How often should I get this test?
This test is typically done once during pregnancy or if you’re at risk of rubella exposure. If you’re not pregnant, it’s not routinely recommended unless you have specific concerns about immunity.
  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