Yellow fever virus antibodies

Which test do we use?

Immunofluorescence test to detect IgG and IgM antibodies.

Sampling instructions

For 1 or 2 serological analyses: at least 1 ml serum
For 3 to 5 serological analyses: at least 2 ml serum

Storage conditions

The serum can be sent at room temperature, but the duration of transportation must be reduced as much as possible (avoid weekends or holidays).

Important advice

During the first week after onset of fever, virus itself can be detected by PCR.

Please indicate country of origin , date of onset of symptoms and sampling date on the application form.
Even though the immunofluoresce test can be positive after vaccination, this test does not detect neutralizing antibodies and as such cannot be used to check status after vaccination.

Checking status after vaccination is unnecessary is most people, for more information see

https://www.itg.be/E/Article/yellow-fever-vaccination

If neutralising antibodies are requested, the date (year) of the last yellow fever vaccination needs to be mentioned on the request form.

Request form National Reference Center (NRC)

For request in the context of symptoms due to vaccination, the clinical biologist has to be contacted.