Rubella IgG Test: Normal Range, Understanding Reports & Next Steps

Introduction 

Ever wonder if you're safe from Rubella? A Rubella IgG test can tell you. Rubella, also known as German measles, is a virus that can be really harmful, especially if you're pregnant. The test detects IgG antibodies in your blood, which indicate whether you are immune or at risk.

The blog will help you understand: 

• What the Rubella IgG Test is
• Rubella IgG test normal range 
• What your test report means
• When to consult a doctor

What is the Rubella IgG Test, and what does it do?

The Rubella IgG test is a blood test that measures the level of IgG antibodies against the rubella virus. If antibodies are found, it means you have immunity, either from a previous infection or vaccination. On the other hand, if antibodies are low or absent, it means you are not immune and may need vaccination.

Additionally, doctors often recommend this test to women planning pregnancy, during early pregnancy, or those with an uncertain vaccination/infection history. 

What is the normal range of the Rubella IgG Test?

The normal range of the Rubella IgG test may vary depending on the laboratory testing, age, and underlying health conditions. 

Rubella IgG Level	Interpretation
<10 IU/mL	Negative
10 - 15 IU/mL	Equivocal
>15 IU/mL	Positive

What do these levels mean for you?

Here is what the rubella IgG levels mean for you: 

1. Negative 

A rubella IgG test normal value (<10 IU/mL) means you are not immune to rubella. If you are pregnant, your doctor may delay vaccination until after delivery. Otherwise, they may recommend the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. 

If your rubella test report shows 10-15 IU/mL, these are equivocal results that need a repeat test or further evaluation. 

How to maintain them? 

Rubella IgG levels cannot be maintained directly like blood sugar or cholesterol through diet or lifestyle changes. You usually acquire Rubella IgG antibodies from the MMR vaccine or if you had the infection before.

Here is what you can do to stay safe: 

• Stay up-to-date with the MMR vaccine.
• Pre-pregnancy checkups are crucial to get your Rubella IgG levels tested. 
• Regular health monitoring can help you understand your immune status. 
• Maintain overall immune health to support your body's immune function.

2. Equivocal (Uncertain Results)

An equivocal Rubella IgG test result (10-15 IU/mL) is uncertain. They are neither clearly positive (immune) nor clearly negative (non-immune). Sometimes, this may occur due to low antibody levels, which could mean borderline protection or past infections with borderline immunity. 

Symptoms/ Possible Risks 

These may include:

• Unclear protection against rubella infection
• If you are planning a pregnancy or are already pregnant, insufficient immunity may increase the risk of rubella complications in pregnancy.
• May require a repeat test or vaccination to confirm immunity. 

3. Positive 

A positive rubella IgG level (> 15 IU/mL) means you are immune, protected against rubella infection either through vaccination or past infection. It is not a cause for concern. 

What to do if your levels are not in the normal range?

If your levels are not in the normal range, do not panic. Here is what you can do: 

1. Consult a doctor: You should see a doctor if you are planning a pregnancy and your rubella IgG test results show low or negative immunity. Additionally, if you are pregnant and your results are negative, discuss with your doctor what precautions can be taken. 

2. General lifestyle tips: While lifestyle can't change IgG antibody levels, maintaining good overall health supports immune function.

• Eat a proper diet to maintain a healthy immune system. Get proper sleep.
• Maintain your vaccination records. 

Important Note: Always consult a qualified healthcare professional, as interpretation depends on your age, vaccination history, and pregnancy status.

FAQs

1. What is a normal rubella IgG antibody level?

A Rubella test normal value is greater than 10-15 IU/mL. It is considered positive, meaning you are immune. 

2. Is a rubella IgG positive good for pregnancy?

Yes. A positive Rubella IgG is suitable for pregnancy, which means you are immune to rubella, which is essential during pregnancy. It will protect both you and your unborn baby from complications like congenital rubella syndrome.

3. What happens if I'm positive for rubella?

If you test positive for Rubella IgG, it means you have immunity against rubella, either from past infection or vaccination. It is not a cause for concern. 

4. Is rubella high risk in pregnancy?

Yes. If you are not immune and get infected during pregnancy, rubella can pose a high risk. You may experience miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital rubella syndrome in the baby. Regular checkups before or early in pregnancy is important.

5. What are 5 symptoms of rubella?

Low-grade fever, pink or red rash on the face, swollen lymph nodes, runny nose, and joint pain are five common symptoms of rubella. 

6. Is rubella a serious disease?

For most healthy individuals, rubella is a mild illness. However, it can cause problems during pregnancy because of the risk to the unborn child. Therefore, a vaccination and immunity testing are a must. 

7. What is the best treatment for rubella?

Adequate rest, fluids, and fever management can help manage the condition as there is no specific antiviral treatment for rubella. Take preventive MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) to stay protected. 

Final Takeaway

The Rubella IgG Test is a simple yet crucial test to check your immunity against rubella. A positive result means you’re protected, while a negative or equivocal result highlights the need for further medical guidance, especially if you’re planning a pregnancy.

For accurate reports and convenient home sample collection, you can book your Rubella IgG Test with Redcliffe Labs today. Knowing your immunity status helps protect both your health and your future family’s well-being.

Just got tested? Enter your Rubella IgG levels below in the test value evaluator to understand what your values mean.