Health News and Information

MEASLES – BLOOD TEST

A blood test can determine if rubella antibodies are present. If they are, the woman is immune to rubella and there is no risk to any children she may have. A history of previous infection is unreliable, as rubella may be mistaken for other infections or vice-versa.

Sometimes it is so mild, and the rash so fleeting, the patient may be unaware she has it.

If the woman shows no antibodies and is therefore susceptible, she can be given the injection but must be careful to avoid pregnancy for the next 12 weeks.

All pregnant women are now routinely checked to see if they have rubella antibodies when they see the doctor with their first pregnancy.

If they have antibodies, they can be reassured there is no risk to this or subsequent children. If

they do not have immunity, the foetus may be at risk. Immediately after delivery, the mother can be immunised and so all future children protected.

If a woman who is pregnant comes into contact with a case of rubella, what should she do? If she has had the blood test and is immune, she has no worries. If, by chance, she has not been tested, this should be done within 10 days of the contact.

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