Tests
Suspected cases are confirmed by blood tests measuring two classes of antibodies, IgG and IgM.
Diagnosis can only be regarded as conclusive if a four-fold rise in IgG antibody titre is detected in two blood samples taken at least two weeks apart, one at the beginning of illness and the second one two-four weeks later.
IgM antibody is a specific class of antibodies which are often used as indicators of recent infection. However, it is important to remember that in the Ross River disease this class of antibodies may be detected for long periods of time after the infection (18 to 48 months) and false-positive results with some test systems are not uncommon. When clinically important, it may be useful to have positive IgM antibody results verified by a reference laboratory.
Diagnostic laboratories are required by law to report all positive cases to local public health units.
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