Immune to measles? Find out fast with a titer test
Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on September 24th, 2025.
The recent measles outbreak across multiple states has caused public health authorities to be concerned. And for good reason, because the telltale measles rash often doesn’t appear until four days into the illness, people may be infected and unknowingly expose others to this highly contagious virus.
To keep staff and students safe, some school districts are taking matters into their own hands. They require proof of immunization, which involves a titer test for measles immunity if you cannot provide documentation of measles vaccination.
If your school or job requires a titer test for measles, what is this test, where can you get it and how does it work?
What does a measles titer test detect?
A titer test is a blood test that checks for the presence of certain antibodies in the bloodstream to determine whether you’re immune to a specific disease. Antibodies are made by your immune system to help fight and control an infection, such as measles. A measles titer test checks proof of vaccination. This test does not tell if you have an active measles infection.
Urgent care facilities offer titer testing, by taking a blood sample to measure the levels of antibodies in your immune system.
Who needs a titer test?
There are several reasons you might need a titer blood test. In the case of the outbreaks in certain states, schools may ask parents to show proof of their children’s measles immunity before they return to the classroom. You are considered immune to measles if you meet one of the following:
- Pre-school age child with one measles vaccine (MMR)
- School-age child (K-12) or adult with two measles vaccines (MMR)
- Born before 1957
- Previously diagnosed with measles by a doctor or blood test
- Titer test that shows you are immune
KEY POINT: Most adults and children are vaccinated against measles, but if you are unable to provide documentation of vaccination, your school or work may require proof of immunity with a titer blood test.
Proof of immunity not being required in your child’s school district? It still doesn’t hurt to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re protected from the circulating measles virus. What matters most is your health and the health of others in the community.
To get started, just find the center nearest you. Give them a call before coming in so that they may take the proper precautions prior to your arrival at the center.
FAQs
Here are frequently asked questions about measles immunity and titer tests.
What exactly does a positive titer test result mean?
A positive titer test means your blood contains enough antibodies to indicate immunity to a specific disease. The immunity can come from a vaccination or a previous infection.
If my titer test shows I'm not immune, what are the next steps?
If you are not immune to the specific disease, then the doctor will likely recommend vaccination or a booster shot.
Is the MMR titer test the same as a measles titer test?
An MMR titer test checks for immunity to measles, mumps and rubella. A measles titer test only checks for antibodies to measles.
Do I need a doctor's order to get a titer test at an urgent care?
You do not. You can walk into any urgent care facility and request a titer test. Urgent care providers can help you with the order.
How long are the results of a titer test considered valid?
Titer test results don’t expire, but schools or employers may require documentation within a certain timeframe, so be sure to check with your facility.
References:
- https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html
