What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), and Varicella (VZV) Immunity Blood Test Panel, which detects antibodies to common infectious diseases, such as measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella zoster, to help confirm immunity. Often schools and certain companies require their students and workers to provide proof of immune status. In addition, this test can help determine if an individual has been vaccinated against or previously infected by diseases such as MMR and VZV.
MMR infections with measles, mumps, and rubella viruses are confined to humans and occur worldwide. All are spread primarily via the aerosol route. Each of the viruses exists as a single serotype. The MMR (mumps, measles, rubella) vaccine contains live, attenuated forms of all three viruses. Therefore, nearly all infected individuals will show signs of disease. There is only one serotype of measles, and a single natural infection will give life-long protection. The main route of measles infection is via inhalation. The measles virus is highly contagious, and the maximum period of contagiousness is 2 to 3 days before the onset of the rash.
Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) causes the illness known as chicken pox. Most pregnant women have already been exposed to the virus and are therefore immune; some may not have previously had the infection. However, since the virus can cause congenital disabilities or illness in the infant (depending on when an infection occurs during the pregnancy), testing is available pre-conception or early pregnancy to determine if the woman has antibodies to VZV. If the woman doesn’t and is therefore not immune, a vaccine can be given before the woman gets pregnant; if she is already pregnant and may have been exposed to the virus, treatment is available that can prevent or weaken the severity of the illness.
When should I order an MMR and VZV Immunity Blood Test Panel?
Individuals interested in determining their immunity to MMR or VZV may order this test. Individuals should also note that this test cannot distinguish between a past or current infection; therefore, a positive result may indicate active infection and not immunity. However, suppose an active infection is not suspected based on the individual’s history, clinical signs, and other laboratory results. In that case, a positive IgG result is likely due to past infection, and the individual is assumed to be immune to the disease. Individuals are advised to follow up with their doctor or healthcare provider if they have significant concerns or questions about their results.
