Rubella Serology

Test information: Rubella (German measles) is a viral infection that's now rare in the UK due to the introduction of the MMR vaccine. Rubella serology is performed for the assessment of immunity, usually as part of an occupational screen where MMR vaccination status is uncertain.

It may also be used to assess the susceptibility of contacts of suspected or proven cases of Rubella - particularly pregnant women. Please note Rubella immunity is not routinely available as part of the routine antenatal booking screen in accordance with the IDPS guidance. Full Rubella IgM and IgG serological profile is available by referral for clinical investigations.

Availability: Available locally Monday - Friday during routine hours: 08:45 - 17:15.
Referred to Severn Pathology North Bristol NHS Trust: Monday - Friday during routine hours: 08:45 - 17:15.

Turnaround Time: Locally 3 Days
Up to 3 Days upon receipt at Severn Pathology North Bristol NHS Trust.

Specimen Type(s)

• Clotted blood;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

N/A

Specimen Container - Adult

• Gold Top SST BD;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Plain Top Sarstedt;

Analytes

• Rubivirus rubellae antibodies;

Part of a test profile?

No

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

5 - 10mL

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

• Minimum-clotting time 30 minutes.
• Do not send grossly haemolysed, lipemic or icteric specimens.
• Specimens should be transported to the laboratory as soon as possible.
• Outside of normal hours samples should be refrigerated (2 °C to 8 °C).
• The performance of local testing has not been established on immunosuppressed populations.

Maximum add on time

2 Years

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

Anti-Rubella IgG Titre:
Negative: <10 IU/mL
Equivocal : >10 IU/mL - < 15 IU/mL
Positive: > 15 IU/mL

UKAS number

8869

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

N/A

If you have any queries about a test or results interpretation please contact us.