Description
This blood test measures the level of rabies-specific antibodies in your bloodstream to evaluate your immunity after vaccination. It is commonly used for individuals at higher risk of exposure—such as veterinarians, animal handlers, laboratory workers, and international travelers—to ensure continued protection against the rabies virus.
What This Test Measures
- Rabies Antibody Titer (IU/mL):
- Assesses the concentration of antibodies produced in response to the rabies vaccine.
- A result of ≥0.5 IU/mL is considered an adequate immune response, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
- A lower titer may indicate the need for a booster vaccination.
Who Should Get Tested
This test may be recommended for:
- People in high-risk occupations (e.g., veterinarians, wildlife workers)
- Individuals working with rabies virus in a lab setting
- Travelers to regions with high rabies prevalence
- People who completed a rabies vaccination series and need to verify immunity status
Important Notes
- This test does NOT diagnose a rabies infection.
- It is used strictly to assess immune response after vaccination, not for post-exposure evaluation.
- Fasting: Not required
- Sample Type: Standard blood draw
