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Rubella Antibody Screening Why is it important to be immune to German measles German measles or rubella is a mild
illness in terms of its symptoms. However, it can be dangerous for a pregnant
woman because the Rubella virus could cause severe abnormalities in the
baby. There could be nothing worse for you than succeeding in becoming
pregnant, catching German Measles in the first 4 months of that pregnancy
and then having to consider having an abortion. You should eliminate this
possibility right at the beginning by screening for the virus.
I have had German measles before, so I must be immune Do not be complacent if you have
had German measles before or if you have been vaccinated in school. This
does not necessarily mean that you are out of danger. There are other virus
infections that can mimic Rubella clinically, and 5% of Rubella vaccinations
fail to give immunity.
How can I ensure immunity against Rubella First, you need to test whether you
are immune to Rubella. This is a simple procedure merely requiring you
to send a blood sample to the laboratory. Then, if the test results indicate
that you are not immune, you must be made immune. All you have to do is
ask your family doctor to give you a vaccination. Remember that this
vaccination should be given only during a normal period when there is no
question of you being pregnant.
Do I have to wait before trying to get pregnant It is necessary to use contraceptives
like condoms or spermicide pessaries for at least 21/2 months after the
vaccination. Six to eight weeks after the vaccination, a repeat antibody
screening test is carried out to check on your response to the vaccine.
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