HAV IgM/IgG test for hepatitis A

Do you suffer from symptoms like fatigue, nausea, yellowing of the eyes, or abdominal pain?Your doctor may recommend an HAV IgM/IgG test, one of the most important blood tests used to diagnose Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection.In this guide from Dalili Medical, we walk you through everything you need to know about the test:
what it is, when it's ordered, and how to interpret the results.

What Is the HAV IgM/IgG Test?

The HAV IgM/IgG test is a blood test used to detect antibodies against the Hepatitis A virus in the body:

IgM (Immunoglobulin M): Indicates a recent or active HAV infection.
IgG (Immunoglobulin G): Indicates past infection or immunity from vaccination.

When Is the HAV IgM/IgG Test Ordered?

Doctors may request this test in the following cases:

When symptoms of hepatitis appear (e.g., jaundice, fatigue, nausea, dark urine, pale stools).
After exposure to someone infected with HAV.
During routine liver screening.
Before traveling to areas with high HAV prevalence.
For food handlers or healthcare workers as a precautionary measure.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein.
Fasting is usually not required.
Results are typically available within 1–2 days.

How to Interpret HAV IgM/IgG Test Results

Result	Interpretation
IgM (+), IgG (–)	Recent or active HAV infection
IgM (+), IgG (+)	Ongoing infection with immune response starting
IgM (–), IgG (+)	Past infection or immunity through vaccination or recovery
IgM (–), IgG (–)	No current infection or immunity

Why Is This Test Important?

The HAV IgM/IgG test helps in:

Diagnosing active Hepatitis A infection accurately.
Determining immunity status (via vaccination or prior infection).
Distinguishing between recent and past infection.
Preventing the spread through early isolation or public health interventions.

Is Hepatitis A Dangerous?

In most cases, Hepatitis A is not life-threatening and individuals recover within weeks. However, older adults or those with pre-existing liver disease may face severe complications, including temporary liver failure.

How Is HAV Transmitted?

Eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Direct contact with an infected person (especially children).
Poor hand hygiene after using the toilet or changing diapers.

Can HAV Be Prevented?

Yes, through the following:

HAV vaccination: Safe and highly effective.
Good hand hygiene, especially before meals.
Avoiding unsafe food or water in endemic areas.
Maintaining personal and public cleanliness.

Who Is Most at Risk of HAV Infection?

Travelers to HAV-endemic regions.
Food service workers.
Healthcare providers.
People who use drugs.
Individuals with chronic liver disease.
Men who have sex with men (MSM).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ Does IgM appear immediately after infection?
✅ No. IgM antibodies typically appear 1–2 weeks after exposure to the virus.

❓ Can I have HAV without showing IgG?
✅ Yes. If it’s an early-stage infection or no vaccination was received, IgG may not be detectable yet.

❓ Do I need treatment if my IgM is positive?
✅ There’s no specific antiviral treatment for HAV. Rest, hydration, and good nutrition support recovery.

❓ Can you get Hepatitis A more than once?
✅ Very rarely. Most people develop lifelong immunity after infection or vaccination.

Conclusion: Why the HAV IgM/IgG Test Matters

The HAV IgM/IgG test is a powerful diagnostic tool for identifying current or past Hepatitis A infection. It helps determine whether you’re currently infected or already immune, aiding in early intervention and infection control, especially in high-risk environments.

If your doctor recommends the test, don’t worry—it’s simple, safe, and essential for protecting your health and the health of those around you.