Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for healthcare workers, teachers, and childcare providers who need proof of immunity for employment. It's also recommended for women planning pregnancy, college students living in dorms, international travelers, and anyone who's been exposed to mumps or can't find their vaccination records. People with unexplained swollen glands or parotid gland swelling may also use this test to help clarify their symptoms.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Consider this test if you're experiencing swollen, painful glands on the sides of your face near the jaw, high fever, headache, or fatigue that could indicate mumps infection. It's also useful if you have no symptoms but need to confirm your immunity status for work, school, travel, or because you've been in contact with someone who has mumps.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means you have IgG antibodies to mumps virus, indicating you're immune and protected against mumps infection. This immunity could be from past vaccination (like the MMR vaccine) or from having had mumps in the past. You're considered protected and don't need additional vaccination unless your antibody levels are borderline.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means no mumps antibodies were detected, suggesting you may not be immune to mumps. This could mean you were never vaccinated, your vaccination didn't produce lasting immunity, or your antibody levels have declined over time. Your doctor may recommend getting the MMR vaccine or a booster dose to develop protection.

How can I protect myself if I'm not immune to mumps?

If your test shows you're not immune, get vaccinated with the MMR vaccine, which protects against mumps, measles, and rubella. Avoid close contact with anyone who has mumps, practice good hand hygiene, and don't share drinks or utensils. Mumps spreads through respiratory droplets, so staying away from crowded spaces during outbreaks can help reduce your risk until you're vaccinated.

What is mumps and why does immunity matter?

Mumps is a contagious viral infection that causes painful swelling of the salivary glands, high fever, headache, and fatigue. While most cases resolve on their own, mumps can lead to serious complications like meningitis, hearing loss, or inflammation of the testicles or ovaries, which can affect fertility. Having immunity protects you from infection and prevents spreading the virus to vulnerable people like infants and pregnant women.

How often should I retest my mumps immunity?

Most people with documented positive mumps immunity don't need routine retesting, as immunity from vaccination or past infection is generally long-lasting. However, you may need to retest if you're entering a high-risk environment like healthcare work, if there's an outbreak in your area, or if your employer or school requires updated documentation. Your doctor may recommend retesting every 5-10 years if you work in high-exposure settings.