Mumps serum antibodies

Microbiology

Notes

• Mumps is a notifiable disease. Click for notification form.
• This test is used to diagnose current or recent mumps infection
• Suspected cases can be confirmed by a MMR oral fluid test; kits are available from the Health Protection Team ( 0845 504 8668)
• Mumps serum antibody testing is used to diagnose current or recent mumps infection
• For mumps immunity, see Mumps antibodies - post vaccination
• This test is part of the following viral screen sets:
  • Encephalitis screen

Sample requirements

Serum - paired samples not normally required

8.5ml of blood taken into a plain gel tube

Required information

• Relevant clinical details
• Date of onset
• Details of exposure to other suspected cases
• Vaccination history

Storage/transport

Store at fridge temperature

Transport as soon as possible at ambient temperature

Turnaround time

Mumps CFT tests are performed in-house

Mumps IgM tests are sent to a National Reference Centre

7 - 10 days