Measles vaccination has drastically reduced the incidence of measles in Australia, but the World Health Organisation still lists measles as a leading cause of death in young children. However, in more recent years measles has staged a comeback due to less comprehensive vaccination coverage in Australia. This simple blood test checks for measles immunity. Measles antibodies are produced by the immune system in response to a measles infection or in response to vaccination.
What we test
Measles antibodies
There are two types of antibodies produced in response to measles infection or vaccination. The first type to appear in the blood after exposure or vaccination is IgM antibodies. Levels of IgM antibodies increase for several days and then taper off. IgG antibodies take a bit longer to appear, but once they do, they stay in the bloodstream for life protecting against re-infection.
The first type of measles antibodies to appear in the blood after exposure or vaccination is IgM antibodies. Levels of IgM antibodies increase for several days and then taper off.
Measles IgG antibodies take a bit longer to appear, but once they do, they stay in the bloodstream for life protecting against re-infection.
Test instructions
Download and print your pathology form from your i-screen dashboard.
Take your form to one of our affiliated collection centres to have your sample taken.
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