Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood draw (serum)
- Fasting: No fasting required
- Turn-around: 2-6 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Verify immunity status without needing a doctor's visit or medical records
- Meet workplace, school, or travel requirements with official proof of protection
- Avoid unnecessary vaccinations by confirming existing immunity levels
- Get quantitative results in International Units (IU/mL) for precise interpretation
- Fast, confidential testing with results typically available within days
- No special preparation needed—just a simple blood draw
Who Is This Test For?
- Healthcare workers and first responders requiring proof of immunity
- Students needing immunization verification for school enrollment
- International travelers to countries with tetanus/diphtheria requirements
- Adults with unknown vaccination history or missing immunization records
- Individuals at higher risk due to occupation or lifestyle factors
- People considering booster shots who want to confirm current immunity status
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online and visit a local lab for a quick blood draw
- Lab analyzes your blood sample using advanced ELISA testing methods
- Receive results within 2-6 business days.
FAQ
What diseases does this test check for? This test measures antibodies against tetanus ("lockjaw") and diphtheria, two serious bacterial infections preventable by vaccination.
How accurate are the results? The test uses highly specific ELISA methodology with over 95% accuracy in determining immunity status when antibody levels are above protective thresholds.
What if my results show low immunity? Results showing antibody levels below 0.1 IU/mL typically indicate you need vaccination or a booster shot—consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
Can this test diagnose active infection? No, this test only measures immunity from past vaccination or infection, not current disease status.
How long do antibodies last? Tetanus and diphtheria antibodies typically provide protection for 10+ years after vaccination, though levels may decline over time.
Is this the same as getting vaccinated? No, this test only checks existing immunity—it cannot provide protection like vaccination does.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
The Tetanus and Diphtheria Antibody Profile Blood Test measures protective antibodies (IgG) in your blood to determine if you have immunity against these two serious bacterial diseases. Tetanus bacteria produce toxins causing painful muscle spasms and "lockjaw," while diphtheria affects the respiratory system and can be life-threatening. This test uses enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technology to provide quantitative results showing whether your immune system can effectively fight off these infections (Mayo Clinic 2022).
Who would benefit from this test?
Anyone needing official proof of immunity for employment, education, or travel requirements would benefit from this test. It's particularly valuable for healthcare workers, students, international travelers, and adults with uncertain vaccination histories. People at higher risk due to occupational exposure, those considering booster shots, or individuals with compromised immune systems may also find this testing helpful for making informed health decisions (CDC 2024).
When should I order Tetanus and Diphtheria Antibody Profile Blood Test?
Order this test before starting new employment that requires immunization proof, enrolling in school programs, or traveling internationally. It's also recommended after completing a vaccination series to confirm immune response, especially for immunocompromised individuals. Consider testing if you're unsure about your vaccination history, haven't had a booster in over 10 years, or need to verify immunity for specific workplace safety requirements (Johns Hopkins Medicine 2023).
How do I interpret the results?
Results are reported in International Units per milliliter (IU/mL), with clear interpretation guidelines:
Antibody Level ≥ 0.1 IU/mL
- What it means: Protective immunity present
- Typical action: No immediate vaccination needed
Antibody Level 0.01–0.09 IU/mL
- What it means: Low immunity, borderline protection
- Typical action: Consider booster vaccination
Antibody Level < 0.01 IU/mL
- What it means: Little to no immunity
- Typical action: Vaccination recommended
Protective antibody levels correlate with immunity in over 95% of fully vaccinated individuals.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. You can eat normally, take regular medications, and maintain your usual routine. The blood draw is quick and straightforward, requiring only a standard venipuncture. Continue any prescribed medications unless specifically instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider (Labcorp 2025).
How often should I get tested?
- Testing frequency depends on your specific circumstances and risk factors:
- General adult population: Suggested interval: Every 10 years or as needed
- Healthcare workers: Suggested interval: Per employer requirements
- International travelers: Suggested interval: Before travel to high-risk areas
- Immunocompromised individuals: Suggested interval: As recommended by physician
- Unknown vaccination history: Suggested interval: One-time screening
- Why early detection matters
Early detection of non-immune status prevents serious, potentially fatal infections. Tetanus has a case-fatality rate of 10-20% even with modern medical care, while diphtheria can cause severe respiratory complications. Only 63% of U.S. adults are up-to-date on tetanus vaccination, leaving many at risk (CDC 2023). Identifying susceptibility allows for timely vaccination, preventing costly hospitalizations and protecting both individual and community health through maintained immunity levels.
Related tests you may consider
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Immunity Profile Blood Test - Detects antibodies to common infectious diseases, such as measles, mumps, and rubella, to help confirm immunity.
Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Blood Test, Quantitative - Checks if your body has made enough protective antibodies against Hepatitis B, which can happen after vaccination or past infection, helping doctors see if you’re immune or need more protection.
Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Antibodies Blood Test, IgG- Verifies immunity to varicella, frequently required with other immunization testing for institutional compliance.
