How to Read Widal Test Report: A Step-by-Step Explanation

The Widal test is one of the most commonly prescribed blood tests in India to diagnose typhoid fever. Despite its widespread use, many patients struggle to interpret its results. Confusing terminologies like 'O titre', 'H antigen', and dilution ratios like 1:80 or 1:160 often lead to panic or self-misdiagnosis. This blog simplifies each component of a Widal test report so you can understand what it really means and how to act on it—with the right clinical support.

What Is a Widal Test?

The Widal test is a serological test used to detect the presence of antibodies (agglutinins) in the blood against Salmonella typhi, the bacteria responsible for typhoid fever. The test measures the immune response to two types of antigens:

O (somatic) antigen
H (flagellar) antigen

In addition to Salmonella typhi, the test may also check for antibodies against paratyphoid strains (AH and BH). The results are expressed in titration format (like 1:80, 1:160) based on the dilution level at which agglutination (clumping) occurs.

Also Read: What Tests are Done for Typhoid

When Is Widal Test Recommended?

Typically prescribed after 5–7 days of continuous fever
Useful in resource-limited areas where blood cultures aren’t easily available
Always considered alongside clinical signs and other tests like CBC or CRP

Key Terms in Widal Report

O Antigen: Indicates current or recent infection
H Antigen: Indicates past infection or exposure (including vaccination)
AH/BH Antigen: For Salmonella paratyphi A and B
Titre: Level of antibody in blood, represented as a dilution ratio (e.g., 1:80, 1:160)

Step-by-Step Reading of Widal Report

Locate O Antigen Titre: Values greater than 1:80 are often considered significant
Check H Antigen Titre: A result of more than 1:160 suggests past or ongoing exposure
Check AH and BH Titres: Useful if paratyphoid is suspected
Interpret Together: Positive O + H titres may suggest active infection
Consider Local Context: Endemic areas may have higher baseline titres; clinical correlation is key

What Do Positive Results Mean?

O >1:80 and H >1:160: Suggests possible typhoid infection
Only H positive: Could indicate previous infection or vaccination
AH/BH positive: May indicate paratyphoid fever

Always consider test timing (after 5–7 days of fever) and symptoms for accurate interpretation.

Common Pitfalls in Interpretation

False positives due to previous typhoid or vaccination
False negatives if done too early in the infection
Misinterpretation of low titres as active disease
Lack of clinical correlation with other diagnostics like CBC or CRP

Should You Self-Diagnose Using Widal Alone?

No. The Widal test is only a supportive tool. A definitive diagnosis should be based on blood culture or comprehensive clinical evaluation. Misinterpreting a Widal test can lead to unnecessary antibiotic use or missed diagnoses.

How Orange Health Labs Supports Diagnosis

At-home Widal test with 60-minute sample collection
Bundled testing options with CBC, CRP, and fever panels

The Widal test remains a relevant and widely used diagnostic tool in India, but interpreting it requires more than just reading numbers. Understanding the difference between O and H titres, the importance of testing timing, and pairing it with symptoms and other diagnostics can lead to smarter, faster treatment decisions. For safe, accurate at-home testing, Orange Health Labs provides end-to-end diagnostic support with certified accuracy.

Book your Widal test online today and get fast, doctor-reviewed results from home.

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Orange Health Labs: Who Are We

Welcome to Orange Health Labs! Experience the convenience of a high-quality diagnostic laboratory, within the comfort of your home. We provide laboratory services that bring cutting-edge diagnostics right to your doorstep, ensuring you have easy access to essential healthcare solutions. We are your trusted partners, backed by certifications, ensuring top-notch accuracy and quality. With a track record of exceeding 1,000,000 tests, our credibility is trusted by healthcare professionals. So, get ready to embrace the luxury of premium diagnostics without stepping out of the comfort of your home – because your well-being deserves nothing but the best.

Steps to Book a Test/ Health Package

Say goodbye to long queues and hello to hassle-free blood sample collection from our certified pathology lab right at your doorstep. Here's a straightforward step-by-step guide: • Visit www.orangehealth.in or use the Orange Health Lab Test At Home app. • Provide your details through the platform. • Skilled, trained, and vaccinated eMedics will reach you within 60 minutes or as per your chosen time slot. • Collected samples will be sent straight to our certified pathology laboratory for testing. • Expect your test reports via WhatsApp & Email within 6 hours, based on the tests done. • You can also conveniently access your reports on our app for easy reference.

About The Brand

Our view on healthcare is that, like much else, it should reach our homes – conveniently and affordably. We believe being connected to your doctor matters. A personal connect and context in healthcare cannot be replaced. Effective medicine will be when online and offline worlds combine. Our efforts will be to create services and products that doctors can use with their patients in clinic or remotely at their homes to better assess and diagnose patients' health and provide the right treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should you choose Orange Health Labs over other pathology labs?

Orange Health Labs stands out as the fastest diagnostic lab in town. From rapid at-home testing to expert eMedics, we blend cutting-edge diagnostics with comfort. With trusted certifications for our lab, we're your trusted path to accurate results. Experience health on your terms!

How does home collection within 60 minutes work?

We guarantee home pathology services within just 60 minutes from order placement in Bangalore, Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Hyderabad, Faridabad, and Mumbai. Our skilled, vaccinated eMedics, following your chosen schedule, will arrive at your door. Your sample will be carefully handled, maintained at the right temperature, and transported to our certified labs. And rest assured, the results will reach you with even greater speed!

How are reports delivered?

You will receive your reports via WhatsApp within 6 hours for most tests with our diagnostic laboratory. Additionally, you can access and view the reports on our app at any time.

What are the modes of payment available for booking?

We offer a range of convenient payment options for our home pathology services. These include UPI, Mastercard, Visa card, Debit cards, and Credit card options. The choice is yours!

Can I cancel a test booking?

You can cancel the booking from the Order Tracking Page on our app. Also, you can reach out to customer support via WhatsApp at 9008111144. We're here to help, and we'll get back to you in a flash!

Can I reschedule a booked test?

If the need to reschedule a booked test arises, you can reschedule the booking from the Order Tracking Page on our app. Also, you can reach out to customer support via WhatsApp at 9008111144. Our team is primed to swiftly address your queries and provide the support you seek.