Lab test
Hepatitis A Immunity Test – HAV Blood Test
Below is a plain-language overview of the hepatitis a immunity test – hav blood test. A hepatitis A immunity test checks your blood for antibodies that show whether you are protected against the hepatitis A virus.
Lab requirements in Hepatitis A Immunity Test – HAV Blood Test
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Hepatitis A Immunity Test – HAV Blood Test. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Fasting is required for this test — follow the collection lab's instructions.
- Preparation
- Preparation for this test is usually minimal, but you should follow any specific instructions provided by the collection lab. This may include fasting or other requirements, so always check…
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
This blood test looks for antibodies your body makes in response to the hepatitis A virus, either from a past infection or from vaccination. It helps determine if you have immunity, meaning your body is prepared to fight off the virus.
What it measures
- Hepatitis A virus total antibodies — Reflects past infection or vaccination, indicating immunity
- IgG antibodies — Suggests long-term immunity from past infection or vaccination
- IgM antibodies — May indicate a recent or acute infection
What the test involves
A healthcare professional collects a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a standard blood draw. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order this test to see if you are already immune to hepatitis A before recommending vaccination, or to investigate a possible past infection. It can also be used in certain public health or occupational settings where immunity status is relevant.
Preparation
Preparation for this test is usually minimal, but you should follow any specific instructions provided by the collection lab. This may include fasting or other requirements, so always check with the lab beforehand.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as positive or negative for hepatitis A antibodies, or sometimes with a numerical value. Reference ranges and reporting methods can vary between laboratories, so your results should be interpreted in the context of the lab that performed the test.
Before you go
- Whether any special preparation is needed before the blood draw
- How long results typically take at that lab
- Whether your insurance covers the test and if a referral is required
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive hepatitis A immunity test mean?
A positive result generally means that you have antibodies against the hepatitis A virus, which usually indicates immunity from either a past infection or vaccination. This means you are likely protected against future hepatitis A infections.
Can I get this test if I have been vaccinated for hepatitis A?
Yes, the test can detect antibodies produced by vaccination. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about your vaccination history so they can interpret the results correctly.
How long does it take to get hepatitis A immunity test results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days after the lab receives your sample. The exact turnaround time may vary depending on the laboratory and other factors.
Do I need to fast before a hepatitis A immunity test?
Fasting is usually not required for this test, but you should follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider or the collection lab. Always confirm preparation details with the lab to ensure accurate results.
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