What is an MMR Titer?

5 min. readlast update: 10.17.2023

An MMR titer is a blood immunity test that checks for antibodies in your bloodstream that indicate whether or not you have immunity to the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella diseases. If you have a history of the diseases or were previously immunized with the MMR vaccination then the MMR titer will test for the antibodies in your blood to prove your immunity. If you are unable to find proof of immunization, but you think you have been vaccinated in the past, you may opt to take a titer test. 

Schedule your MMR Titer Test with Labcorp Today

If your institution has a student health center, they may offer titer tests for students. It is always helpful to utilize this resource if you have it. Contact them today about getting your MMR antibody titer. 

How to Read My Titer Test Results?

A negative test result indicates that you do not have immunity to Measles, Mumps, and Rubella infections. In order for your titer test to fulfill your immunization requirement you will need a positive test result which indicates that you do have immunity. If your test results are equivocal, that means that you do have present antibodies but not enough to be considered protective. In order for your titer to be accepted as proof of immunization for most institution's vaccine compliance you will need positive test results. 

What Do I Do After I Get My Test Results?

If your test results show that you are immune to measles, mumps and rubella, you do not need to take any further action. These results can be used to meet immunization compliance standards. If you need help submitting proof of these positive test results, please reach out to help@medproctor.com for assistance.

If your test results show that you do not have immunity, your doctor may recommend that you get the vaccination series, particularly if you are at high risk of getting the infection. This is because the vaccinations will help protect you from the infection and lower your chances of becoming ill. Your school may also require that you have proof of immunization or a positive titer, so if your titer test is negative, you will need to get the necessary vaccinations to meet the school's immunization requirements.

For information on where to get vaccinated, you will want to contact your healthcare provider or your student health center.

Why Get an MMR Titer?

  • Immunization Compliance
    • Your school will likely allow you to provide lab evidence of immunity by doing an MMR blood titer test to fulfill your MMR immunization requirement. 
    • You will want to confirm with your school that an MMR titer is accepted in place of the MMR vaccination requirement to ensure your immunization compliance. You can also reach out via email to help@medproctor.com to confirm these requirements as well. 
  • Pregnancy
    • If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant and cannot be revaccinated, you may want to consider getting a titer test to check if you have immunity to certain illnesses. This test can help you find out if you have enough antibodies to guard you against the disease, or if you need to be revaccinated.
    • Some people also get an MMR titer to check their immunity when they will be in close proximity to a baby or someone with a weakened immune system.
  • Confirm your Past Immunization History 
    • A titer can be useful if you do not have evidence of your prior MMR immunization or if you have a history of the virus and need to demonstrate this known immunity. It can demonstrate that you have been vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella, and are protected from the virus. However, it is important to remember that a titer does not substitute for a MMR vaccine if you have not been immunized in the past.
    • If you are uncertain about your immunization status for the MMR vaccination, an MMR titer test can also be beneficial. This test will show if you have already been vaccinated against measles, mumps, and Rubella, or if you need to get vaccinated for the first time. Doing this can help make sure you are adequately safeguarded against the virus.

What is MMR?

MMR stands for Measles, Mumps, and Rubella.

Measles is a virus that is easily spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing. It can cause a rash, fever, and cough. Serious complications from measles can include ear infections, brain damage, and pneumonia. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and those around you from this virus.

Mumps is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, decreased appetite, and swollen salivary glands. Complications from mumps can be severe and include hearing loss, inflammation of the brain and/or the membrane surrounding the brain, and spinal cord (encephalitis/meningitis).

The Rubella virus is the cause of rubella, which is often mild and unrecognized. The most common symptom is a red rash that covers the body. However, if a pregnant woman contracts rubella, it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications for the unborn baby, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth defects such as heart defects, vision issues, and intellectual disabilities. It is important for pregnant women to be aware of the risks associated with rubella and to take steps to protect themselves and their unborn babies.

Please note that the MMR titer only tests for immunity, it does not protect you from contracting the disease. If you have any symptoms alike to measles mumps or rubella, contact your doctor immediately.

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