Hepatitis A Immunity (IgG)
The Hepatitis A Immunity (IgG) test measures protective antibodies against hepatitis A virus to determine if an individual has immunity from previous infection or vaccination.
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Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
What this test measures
This test detects hepatitis A virus (HAV)-specific IgG antibodies in the blood. IgG antibodies are the long-lasting class of antibodies the immune system produces after the initial immune response to an infection or vaccination has matured. Unlike IgM antibodies, which appear early and fade within weeks, IgG antibodies persist for life once established, providing durable protection against reinfection.
A positive IgG result with a negative IgM result is the typical pattern indicating immunity, whether from prior vaccination or from a past infection that has fully resolved. The test does not distinguish between vaccine-derived and infection-derived immunity, since both produce protective IgG antibodies. Healthcare providers commonly order this test to verify immune status before travel to regions where hepatitis A is prevalent, to confirm that a vaccination series produced an adequate immune response, or to determine whether vaccination is needed for individuals who are uncertain of their immunization history.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals planning travel to countries with intermediate or high rates of hepatitis A infection who need to verify their immunity status before departure.
- Healthcare workers who require documentation of immunity as part of occupational health requirements and infection control protocols.
- People working in food service industries who may need to demonstrate immunity to hepatitis A as part of employment health screenings.
- Adults with unknown vaccination history who want to confirm their immunity status without receiving unnecessary additional vaccinations.
- Individuals who received the hepatitis A vaccine series and wish to verify that they developed protective antibodies in response to immunization.
- People with chronic liver conditions who are at higher risk for severe hepatitis A complications and need to ensure they are protected.
- Close contacts of individuals with confirmed hepatitis A infection who need to assess their risk and determine if post-exposure prophylaxis is necessary.
What to expect
Preparation
No fasting is required for this test. Individuals taking high-dose biotin supplements should discontinue them at least 72 hours before testing, as biotin may interfere with test results.
Sample Type
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in the arm using a standard needle and collection tube.
Collection
The blood draw typically takes only a few minutes and is performed at any participating lab location with no doctor visit required.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days and will be securely delivered through the patient portal.
Understanding your results
Results are reported as reactive (positive) or non-reactive (negative). A reactive result indicates that protective IgG antibodies to hepatitis A are present, meaning the individual is considered immune through either past vaccination or resolved infection. A non-reactive result indicates no detectable immunity, meaning the individual remains susceptible to hepatitis A infection and may benefit from vaccination. Healthcare providers use this result to guide vaccination decisions, particularly for individuals planning travel to higher-risk areas or those in occupations with increased exposure potential.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | Non-reactive: < 20 IU/L; Reactive: ≥ 20 IU/L | Values of 20 IU/L or higher indicate protective immunity |
| All individuals | Alternative reporting: Non-reactive < 1.0 COI; Reactive ≥ 1.0 COI | Some laboratories report results as a cutoff index (COI) where 1.0 COI corresponds to approximately 25.4 IU/L |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a “Low” result mean?
A negative result indicates the absence of HAV-specific antibodies, implying no past exposure or immunity to HAV infection. A non-reactive total anti-HAV indicates no detectable antibodies, meaning the person is susceptible to HAV and may benefit from vaccination if at risk. Individuals with negative results should consider hepatitis A vaccination, especially if they have risk factors such as travel to endemic areas or occupational exposure.
What does a “High” result mean?
A positive IgG result typically indicates that an individual has had a previous hepatitis A infection or has received a hepatitis A vaccination, suggesting immunity to hepatitis A. IgG antibodies produced in response to vaccination or infection persist for life and protect against reinfection. In most cases, a positive result means the individual is protected against future hepatitis A infection and does not require vaccination.
Privacy & confidentiality
All hepatitis A immunity test results are confidential and protected under HIPAA regulations. Results are delivered securely through your patient portal and are not shared with your primary care physician or added to insurance records unless you specifically request it. No doctor visit required to order this test.
Frequently asked questions
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View TestLast reviewed: April 2026
CPT Code: 86708
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
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