Ulta Lab Tests

Titer

Titer tests (antibody blood tests) measure your immune response to vaccines or past infections. They are commonly used to prove immunity for school, work, travel, healthcare credentialing, and after completing a vaccine series. Titers can also help clinicians check post-vaccination response in people with weakened immune systems.

A proactive plan starts by selecting the specific titers required (for example, MMR—measles, mumps, rubella; varicella-zoster; hepatitis?B surface antibody; tetanus/diphtheria IgG). Draw blood at least 3–4 weeks after vaccination for the clearest results. Remember: titers do not diagnose active infection and do not guarantee protectionfor every disease—thresholds and acceptance rules vary. Always review results with your clinician and follow program requirements.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Documentation & compliance

    • School admission, clinical rotations, and healthcare employment

    • Immigration, travel programs, or volunteer placements

    • Pre-placement or annual audits for MMR, varicella, hepatitis?B, tetanus/diphtheria (± pertussis, where accepted)

  • Care planning

    • Post-vaccination checks after completing a series (e.g., hepatitis?B)

    • People on immunosuppressive therapy confirming response, per clinician

  • Pregnancy & family planning

    • Rubella or varicella IgG status when planning pregnancy (clinician-guided)

  • Not for diagnosing today’s symptoms

    • If you’re ill now, diagnostic tests (PCR/antigen, cultures) are used instead of titers

Program rules and medical decisions require clinician review.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Provide proof of immunity for program and employer requirements

  • Confirm serologic response after vaccination (e.g., post-series hepatitis?B)

  • Establish baselines and trends when clinicians monitor immune response

What testing cannot do

  • Diagnose active infection or determine contagiousness

  • Guarantee lifetime protection—antibodies can wane, and protective thresholds vary by disease and assay

  • Replace recommended vaccination/boosters or your clinician’s judgment

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) IgG: evidence of immunity to each virus; often required for schools and healthcare workers.

  • Varicella-Zoster (Chickenpox) IgG: shows past infection or vaccine response; commonly required for clinical placements.

  • Hepatitis?B Surface Antibody (anti-HBs): indicates vaccine-induced protection or recovery from infection; drawn ≥3–4 weeks after a series or booster.

  • Tetanus & Diphtheria IgG: used for documentation; note that pertussis IgG acceptance varies by institution.

  • Hepatitis?A IgG: sometimes requested for travel or employment.

  • Other disease-specific titers (as requested): e.g., polio neutralizing antibodies (select programs).

  • Result formats: qualitative (positive/negative), quantitative (units), or semi-quantitative; some reports include disease-specific reference cutoffs. Methods are not interchangeable—compare results from the same assay when trending.

Quick Build Guide

Documentation goal Start with Add if needed
Healthcare/clinical placement MMR IgG • Varicella IgG • Hepatitis?B surface Ab • Tetanus/Diphtheria IgG Pertussis IgG (only if your program accepts it)
School/immigration package MMR IgG • Varicella IgG Hepatitis?B surface Ab • Hepatitis?A IgG
Post-vaccine check (Hep?B) Hepatitis?B surface Ab (≥3–4 wks post-series) Repeat after booster if nonreactive (clinician-directed)
Pregnancy planning Rubella IgG • Varicella IgG Draw timing per clinician
Immunocompromised monitoring Program-required titers Repeat testing per clinician plan

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Select the required titers: match your school/employer/travel form exactly.

  2. Time your draw: for post-vaccination checks, test 3–4 weeks after the last dose (or as your clinician advises). Fasting is not required.

  3. Get your blood draw: visit a nearby patient service center; results post to your secure account, typically within a few days.

  4. Review & submit: compare to your report’s reference ranges and your program’s criteria; upload documentation as requested.

  5. Plan follow-up: if nonreactive, your clinician may recommend revaccination and a repeat titer.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • Reactive/Positive: consistent with immunity or prior exposure; many programs accept this as proof when method and units are documented.

  • Nonreactive/Negative: may reflect no immunity, early testing, or waning antibodies—your clinician may advise vaccination and retesting.

  • Equivocal/Borderline: often retest or vaccinate, depending on the program and clinical context.

  • Quantitative values: higher numbers generally mean more antibodies, but no single level guarantees protectionfor every disease. Always follow program rules and clinician guidance.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Program bundle: select a titer package that matches your checklist (e.g., MMR + Varicella + Hep?B + Tetanus/Diphtheria).

  • Single-purpose check: order the one antibody you need (e.g., anti-HBs after a series).

  • Add-ons: include Hepatitis?A IgG or other titers only when specifically requested.

FAQs

Do I need to fast for titer testing?
No. Titers are standard blood tests without fasting.

When should I test after a vaccine?
Wait at least 3–4 weeks after the final dose for a reliable reading.

Will a past infection always make my titer positive?
Not always. Antibodies can wane. Some diseases also rely on cellular immunity, which titers don’t measure.

My titer is negative—do I need the whole series again?
Follow your clinician’s plan and your institution’s policy. Some programs allow a booster followed by a repeat titer.

Are all pertussis (whooping cough) titers accepted?
Acceptance varies. Many programs prioritize Tdap vaccination records over pertussis IgG results.

Can I use titers to diagnose infection right now?
No. Use diagnostic tests (PCR/antigen/culture) for current illness.

Will my lab report include a protective level?
Often yes, when established. Your report lists the reference range for that assay.

Related Categories & Key Tests

References

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — Serologic evidence of immunity and adult immunization guidance.
  • Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) — Recommendations on documentation of immunity.
  • Infectious Diseases Society of America — Use of serologic testing in vaccine-preventable diseases.
  • World Health Organization — Serology standards and vaccine program guidance.
  • Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute — Best practices for serology and assay interpretation.

Available Tests & Panels

Your Titer Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Use filters to choose exactly the titers your form requires—MMR, varicella, hepatitis?B, tetanus/diphtheria, and others. For post-vaccine checks, draw 3–4 weeks after the last dose, then review results with your clinician before submitting documentation..

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The Diphtheria and Tetanus Antitoxoids Test measures protective antibody levels to confirm immunity from prior vaccination or exposure. Adequate antibody levels indicate effective protection, while low levels may signal the need for a booster. Doctors use this test to verify immune status for healthcare workers, students, or travelers, and to ensure long-term protection against diphtheria and tetanus infections that can cause serious complications.

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The Diphtheria Titer Test measures antibody levels to evaluate immune protection against Corynebacterium diphtheriae, the bacterium that causes diphtheria. This test helps determine whether immunity is adequate following vaccination or exposure. By assessing diphtheria antibody titers, it provides insight into immune system response, vaccine effectiveness, and long-term protection against this serious infection.

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Also Known As: Diphtheria Antitoxoid Test
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The Hepatitis A & B Titer Test Panel is a comprehensive diagnostic tool designed to evaluate an individual's immunity status or infection presence for Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B viruses. This panel combines serological assays that measure specific antibodies and antigens associated with Hepatitis A and B, providing crucial insights for clinical diagnosis, vaccination verification, and the assessment of immune response post-vaccination or post-exposure.
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The Hepatitis A Antibody Total Test is a qualitative test that detects antibodies to hepatitis A virus (HAV) and reports results as Reactive or Non-Reactive. It does not distinguish between IgM and IgG antibodies. A reactive result may indicate past infection or immunity from vaccination, while a non-reactive result suggests no prior exposure. Doctors use this test to assess immune status, guide vaccination decisions, and evaluate risk of hepatitis A infection.

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Also Known As: Hep A Ab Total Test, HAV Ab Total Test, Hep A Test, Hepatitis A Test
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The Hepatitis A IgM Antibody Test is a qualitative blood test that detects IgM antibodies to the hepatitis A virus (HAV) and reports results as Reactive or Non-Reactive. A reactive result usually indicates a recent or current hepatitis A infection, while a non-reactive result means no active infection. Doctors use this test to confirm acute hepatitis A in patients with symptoms like jaundice, nausea, fatigue, or abdominal pain and to guide timely treatment and prevention.

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Also Known As: Hep A IgM test, HAV IgM Ab Test
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The Hepatitis B Core Antibody Total Test is a qualitative blood test that detects antibodies to the hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) and reports results as Reactive or Non-Reactive. A reactive result may indicate past or ongoing infection, while a non-reactive result suggests no exposure. This test does not distinguish between IgM and IgG antibodies. Doctors use it to evaluate hepatitis B exposure, confirm infection history, and assess overall immune response.

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Also Known As: HBcAb Total Test, HBc Total Test, Hep B Core Ab Total Test
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The Hepatitis B Immunity Panel Test evaluates immune status by measuring Hepatitis B surface antibody levels in the blood. A positive result typically indicates immunity from vaccination or past infection, while a negative result suggests susceptibility. This test is important for verifying protection, monitoring vaccine response, or determining if additional vaccination or further evaluation for Hepatitis B exposure is needed.

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The Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Quantitative Test measures the exact level of anti-HBs antibodies in blood to determine past exposure and whether protective immunity has developed from infection or vaccination. A higher antibody level generally indicates adequate immune response, while a low level suggests limited or no protection. Doctors use this test to confirm vaccine effectiveness, assess immune status, and support hepatitis B screening or preventive care.

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Also Known As: HBsAb Qn Test, Hepatitis B Titer Test
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The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test with Reflex to Confirmation screens for hepatitis B surface antigen in blood and, if reactive, automatically performs confirmatory testing. A reactive confirmed result indicates an active hepatitis B infection, while a non-reactive result shows no infection. Doctors use this test to diagnose acute or chronic hepatitis B, investigate abnormal liver tests, and guide treatment, monitoring, and infection control decisions.

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Also Known As: HBsAg Test, Hep B Surface Ag Test, HBs Antigen Test, Hep B Test
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 The Hepatitis B Titer Test Panel is a diagnostic panel that comprises three essential tests designed to assess immunity, infection status, and antibody levels for the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). The panel includes the following tests: Hepatitis B Core Antibody Total, Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Quantitative, and Hepatitis B Surface Antigen with Reflex Confirmation.
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The Measles IgG IgM Antibodies Test measures immune response to the measles virus by detecting IgM for recent or acute infection and IgG for past exposure or vaccine immunity. This test helps confirm suspected measles cases in patients with fever, rash, cough, or conjunctivitis, and evaluates immunity in those with uncertain vaccination history, supporting diagnosis, outbreak control, and public health monitoring.

Also Known As: Rubeola Test, Measles Virus Test, Measles Titer test, Measles Infection Test
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The Measles IgG Antibody Test measures IgG antibodies to determine immunity from past infection or vaccination. A positive result indicates protective immunity, while a negative result suggests susceptibility to measles. Doctors use this blood test to confirm immune status, evaluate vaccination records, or meet school, travel, or employment requirements. It provides valuable insight into measles protection and public health safety.

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Also Known As: Rubeola Test, Measles Virus Test, Measles Titer Test
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The Measles IgM Antibody Test detects IgM antibodies specific to the measles virus, providing evidence of recent or acute infection. IgM antibodies typically appear shortly after exposure and indicate an active immune response. This test is used to confirm measles in symptomatic patients, support outbreak investigations, and distinguish between current infection and prior immunity, aiding timely clinical and public health decisions.

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Also Known As: Rubeola Test, Measles Virus Test, Measles Infection Test
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The MMR Titer Test is a quantitative blood test that measures antibody levels to measles, mumps, and rubella. Results provide exact antibody values to confirm prior infection or response to vaccination. Low levels suggest lack of protection, while higher levels indicate adequate response. Doctors order this test for school, employment, or travel requirements and to guide revaccination decisions, ensuring accurate evaluation of immune status against these viral diseases.

Also Known As: MMR Immunity Test, Measles Mumps Rubella Titer, Measles Mumps Rubella IgG Antibodies
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The Rubella IgG IgM Antibodies Test measures antibodies to the rubella virus, helping evaluate immunity or recent infection. IgM indicates an active or recent infection, while IgG confirms past infection or vaccination. Doctors use this test to assess immune status in women of childbearing age, screen during pregnancy, or confirm suspected rubella exposure, as infection can cause serious complications for unborn babies.

Also Known As: Rubella Titer, Rubella Antibodies Test, German Measles Test
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The Rubella IgM Antibody Test measures immune response to the rubella virus by identifying IgM antibodies produced soon after exposure. Detection of rubella IgM helps diagnose recent infection, assess rash-related illness, and monitor risk in pregnancy where congenital rubella syndrome may occur. This test provides valuable insight into acute infection, immunity status, and systemic health.

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Also Known As: German Measles test, 3 Day Measles Test, Three Day Measles Test, Rubella Infection Test
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The Syphilis (RPR + FTA-ABS) panel is a diagnostic tool used to detect and confirm the presence of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This panel combines two tests: the RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin) Screen with Reflex to Titer, and the FTA-ABS (Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption) test, offering both initial screening and confirmatory diagnosis capabilities.
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The Tetanus and Diphtheria Titer Test measures antibody levels to determine immunity from prior vaccination or exposure. Adequate titers indicate protective immunity, while low levels may suggest the need for a booster. Doctors order this test for healthcare workers, students, travelers, or those with uncertain vaccination history. It provides essential information for maintaining protection against these serious bacterial infections.

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The Tetanus Antitoxoid Test evaluates antibody levels to tetanus toxin, offering information about immune defense and vaccination status. Adequate levels indicate protection, while low results may suggest reduced immunity. This test aids in assessing immune response, monitoring vaccine effectiveness, and identifying systemic conditions that influence antibody production and immune balance.

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Also Known As: Tetanus Antitoxoid Test
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The Varicella Titer Test is a blood test that measures antibodies to the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox and shingles. A positive result indicates past infection, while a negative suggests no exposure. This test is not considered reliable for confirming immunity from vaccination. Doctors use it to evaluate history of natural infection, meet school or work requirements, and provide documentation of varicella exposure status.

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Also Known As: Varicella Zoster Virus IgG Antibody Test, Chicken Pox Titer Test, Shingles Titer Test
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The Varicella Zoster Virus IgG IgM Antibodies Panel is used to assess exposure to the varicella-zoster virus, which causes both chickenpox and shingles. By evaluating the presence and levels of specific antibodies, this panel aids in diagnosing current infections, determining immunity, and guiding vaccination decisions.
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Panel Contains Test: Varicella Zoster Virus Antibodies Test
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Immunity Detection and Titer Testing FAQs

Vaccinations aren't as readily available as you may think. Many areas throughout the United States don't have the healthcare access needed to administer vaccinations to nearby areas. This leaves large chunks of the population at risk for developing preventable conditions.

Vaccinations are crucial, especially during a time when we're all on the go every single day. We need adequate protection from everyday ailments.

Even if you had all of your shots when you were younger, you might no longer have an immune response. This is why everyone needs immunity detection and titer testing.

This serological testing can help your healthcare provider determine what your immunization status is for different conditions. In response, you and your healthcare provider can make a plan for your healthcare moving forward.

To learn more about antibody testing and antibody titer options, keep reading.

What Is Immunity Detection and Titer Testing?

Overall, immunity detection and titer testing help you and your healthcare professional understand what conditions you do and do not have immunity against. Even if you've had the vaccine for a disease, it doesn't mean that your body retains the immunity past a few years.

These kinds of tests use a sample of your blood to test for an immune response. By exposing that sample of blood to the virus or bacteria that you're testing, you can see whether or not you're immune to the condition.

If you're not, you need to update your shots. It's important to stay up-to-date on all of your vaccines so that you're protected from these preventable diseases.

What Are the Risks for Low Immunity and Low Titer Levels?

The most common risk for low immunity is lack of vaccination. If you haven't gotten the vaccine for a particular condition, it's unlikely that your body will have a good immune response to the disease or virus. Even if you've had the disease before, your immune response may not be as strong as it should be.

Another risk for low immunity is receiving the vaccination for a condition a long time ago. Many of us get very important vaccinations near the beginning of our lives. If we don't update these shots as needed, we could lose immunity over time.

Lastly, individuals with immunodeficiencies could experience problems retaining proper immune responses. Their bodies don't have the strength necessary to fight some of these conditions. So, it's even more important for these individuals to get antibody testing to determine what vaccinations they need to update.

What Diseases Can You Test for Immunity and Titer Levels?

Fortunately, the scientific community has formed plenty of serological testing possibilities for different conditions. From measles to diphtheria, there's an immune response test.

If you're worried about a specific condition, you should ask your healthcare provider about vaccination against that particular condition.

You may work with patients who have chickenpox. You may be at a high risk for developing tetanus at work. Whatever the case, you should let your healthcare provider know so that they can help you come up with an immunization plan.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Low Immunity Detection and Low Titer Levels?

You're more likely to develop conditions if you have an impaired immune system or a low or nonexistent immune response. Specifically, you're going to be at risk for developing the disease(s) that you're not protected against.

If you happen to contract the disease that you're not protected against, you will show signs and symptoms that are consistent with the disease.

Unfortunately, there's no way to determine your immune response to a disease unless you get antibody testing or contract the disease. This is why we strongly encourage you to get your tests and vaccinations done now rather than worrying about how your body may react later.

How Are Immunity Detection and Titer Levels Diagnosed?

To measure your immune response to various conditions, you have to get lab work done. This is the only way to diagnose immunity before a live infection from the pathogen associated with the disease in question.

With a titer or immunity test, you'll have your blood drawn at a patient service center. Your blood specimen will be sent to a national laboratory where it will be tested for antibodies (an immune response) to the condition you are testing for.

If your specimen doesn't have a response, you're not immune to the condition.

The Lab Tests to Screen, Diagnose, and Monitor Immunity Detection and Titer Levels

There are plenty of lab tests for various conditions that you may want to check your immunity for.

At Ulta Labs, we offer immunity detection and titer testing for a variety of conditions:

Our antibody titer tests can help you determine whether or not you have the protection that you need from various conditions. It would be best if you never assumed that you're immune to a disease. Instead of guessing, you need to get real results from these antibody tests.

Get Your Immunity Detection and Titer Testing With Ulta Lab Tests

If you're looking to determine your immunization status, you need immunity detection and titer testing.

Ulta Lab Tests offers highly accurate and reliable tests so that you can make informed decisions about your health. Here are a few great things to love about Ulta Lab Tests:

  • You'll get secure and confidential results
  • You don't need health insurance
  • You don't need a physician's referral
  • You'll get affordable pricing
  • We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee

Order your immunity detection and titer testing today and, your results will be provided to you securely and confidentially online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests.

Take control with Ulta Lab Tests today!