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SupportWhen Should You Take a Dengue Test?

When is the right time to test for dengue? That’s a question many people face when fever and fatigue set in. In our latest podcast, Dr. Roshni Jhan Ganguly spoke with Dhruv Gupta, Co-founder of Orange Health Labs, to break down the different dengue tests and when each is most effective.
Watch the video here
The Early Test: Dengue NS1 Antigen
The dengue NS1 antigen test is the earliest and fastest way to detect the infection. It can turn positive as early as 24 hours after symptoms begin and is most effective within the first one to five days of illness.
After Day Five: Dengue IgM Antibodies
If you’re testing beyond day five, the dengue IgM antibodies test becomes relevant. A positive result indicates an acute or current infection, much like NS1, but it typically shows up after the fever has lasted a few days.
For Past Infections: Dengue IgG Antibodies
The dengue IgG antibodies test doesn’t point to a current infection but reveals if you’ve had dengue in the past. This can be useful even when you no longer have a fever, helping you understand your medical history with the illness.
Takeaway
The right dengue test depends on when you get tested. NS1 works best in the first few days, IgM after day five, and IgG for past infections. Knowing this timeline can help you and your doctor choose the most accurate test for your situation.
We dive deeper into this in Episode 10 of The Orange Club Podcast: The Truth About Monsoon Diseases: What Causes Malaria, Dengue & Chikungunya.

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