Measles, Mumps, Rubella Antibody

Does this test have other names?


What is this test?

This test looks for antibodies to 3 diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella.

The test can find out whether you are immune to the 3 diseases. All 3 are quite contagious. If you've had them or been vaccinated against them, your immune system made antibodies to fight the viruses that cause them.

If you are planning to become pregnant, it's important to know whether you have these antibodies. If a woman develops rubella during the first 3 months of her pregnancy, it could cause birth defects.

Measles is also called rubeola, and rubella is also called German measles or 3-day measles.

Why do I need this test?





What other tests might I have along with this test?


What do my test results mean?


Your body makes two rubella antibodies: IgM and IgG. If IgM is found in your blood, but not IgG, you may have had a recent infection. If IgG is present, but not IgM, it could mean that you had an infection in the past or that you had the vaccine. These antibodies mean that you have the protection you need. 

Findings for measles antibody:


  • If you have IgG antibodies in your blood, it could mean that you are immune to measles or had the infection previously.

Findings for mumps:

  • If IgM antibodies are present, it may mean that you have an active or recent mumps infection

  • If IgG antibodies are present, it may mean that you have immunity to mumps from a previous exposure to the disease or immunization.

How is this test done?


Does this test pose any risks?


What might affect my test results?


How do I get ready for this test?


Online Medical Reviewer: Chad Haldeman-Englert MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Maryann Foley RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Date Last Reviewed: 8/1/2020