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Measles Antibodies (IgM) Test

Testing for:

Measles antibodies

Measles is highly contagious. In worst cases it can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis and, in pregnancy, miscarriage.

Overview

What is measles?

A highly contagious viral infection. In the most serious cases it can lead to infections of the lung or brain – which can lead to death. In pregnancy can cause miscarriage or stillbirth.

What are the symptoms?

Initially, cold or flu-like symptoms, high temperature, light-sensitivity and greyish spots on the inside of the cheeks. Later, a brown/red blotchy rash which typically begins around the head and neck, then spreads.

What does measles testing do?

It tests for a type of antibody which may indicate that you have (or have recently been in the acute phase of) measles.

How do I get tested?

Book a simple blood test now.

Did You Know?

Globally, measles deaths have fallen dramatically, but it still caused 89,780 deaths in 2016.

What is measles?

Measles is a highly contagious virus, easily spread through coughs and sneezes.

In most cases, measles symptoms are unpleasant but not long lasting. Cold or flu-like symptoms are often accompanied by red eyes, a sensitivity to light, a high temperature and spots (grey/white in colour) on the insides of the cheeks.

Within a few days you may notice a blotchy red/brown rash appearing around the head and neck. This will usually spread to other areas of the body.

Measles typically lasts 7-10 days from the point at which the first symptoms show, although it may have been incubating for up to 10 days before that point. It is most common in children, although anyone without immunity can catch it.

Severe symptoms of measles

Although cases of measles in the UK are rare (and therefore severe cases even rarer) measles still kills tens of thousands of people around the globe every year.

In the most severe instances, measles can cause encephalitis (infection of the brain) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs). In severe cases and if left untreated, both can be fatal.

How does measles affect pregnancy?

Measles can be extremely dangerous during pregnancy. If you are not immune and you catch measles during pregnancy it can trigger a miscarriage or early delivery or lead to a stillbirth.

What should I do if I think I have measles?

See your GP immediately. However, if you cannot get a swift appointment with your GP, or if seeing your GP is impractical, measles testing can help you understand the nature of your illness.

What does measles testing do?

Better2Know carries out two forms of measles testing. Ideally, you should take both tests to determine whether you have measles now (which is what this test checks for) and whether you have immunity to measles which may prevent you getting it in the future. You can find out more about that test here.

How do I get tested?

To get tested, please contact Better2Know on the number above.