Evaluation of a latex agglutination test for screening antibodies to rubella virus

The performance of a commercial latex agglutination test for screening rubella antibodies was investigated, using two panels of selected serum samples especially designed for a careful evaluation of sensitivity. Three false negative results were obtained on samples with very low levels of antibody. However, the test had higher sensitivity than the hemagglutination inhibition test and fluoroimmunoassay when samples were tested undiluted. False positive results were not obtained, and prozone reactions were not observed. The test is a very practical method for screening rubella antibodies in primary health care units.