Measles (Rubeola) Antibody IgG and IgM

Your doctor may order this test if you have the following symptoms:

• Dry cough
• High fever
• Runny nose
• Redness of eyes
• Inflammed throat
• Small white spots in the mouth
• Sensitivity to light

Three to five days after these generalised symptoms, a rash appears that starts from the head and spreads down to the body.

When there is a suspected measles outbreak, this test is ordered to detect and prevent the spread of measles.

Since these antibodies are also produced after vaccination, the test can determine if you have been previously vaccinated against rubeola virus. 

Fasting is not required before this test. Your doctor will explain the purpose of the test before you go for it. Please share your complete medical history with the doctor, so that your results can be interpreted accurately. Also, inform him/her if you are taking any prescription or non-prescription medicines or any supplements as these may interfere with the test results. However, do not discontinue any medication on your own.

It is a simple blood test that takes only a few minutes. A doctor or nurse will withdraw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. You may feel a slight pricking sensation when the needle is inserted, though it will subside soon. 

Some people also get a temporary bruise at the needle insertion site. If you have felt dizzy or have fainted during a blood test in the past or if you are scared of needles or the sight of blood, please inform your doctor or nurse so that they can help you feel more comfortable.

Normal results:

• Negative IgM: No current or prior infection
• Negative IgG: No current or prior infection

A normal result may also be due to a compromised immune system or indicate that you are not immune to the virus.

Abnormal results:

• Positive IgM and negative IgG: Early stage of infection
• Positive IgM and positive IgG: Current or recent infection
• Negative IgM and positive IgG: Immunity developed from vaccination or prior infection

Disclaimer: All results must be clinically correlated with the patient’s complaints to make a complete and accurate diagnosis. The above information is provided from a purely educational point of view and is in no way a substitute for medical advice by a qualified doctor.