What is a Widal test?
Widal Test helps to detect typhoid (enteric) fever and paratyphoid fever, collectively known as enteric (typhoid) fever. Enteric fever is caused by the consumption of food and water, which is contaminated by Salmonella bacteria.
When is a Widal test recommended?
The Widal test should only be performed after the 1st week. The reason being the antibodies against “O” and “H” antigens of salmonella typhi start appearing in serum at the end of the first week of fever. It is recommend to test 2 blood samples at an interval of 7 to 10 days to check the rising antibody titres.
What does it measure?
The Widal test measures the titers of antibodies against the bacteria which cause Enteric fever. Typhoid and paratyphoid fever are generally acquired when you consume food or water, contaminated by faeces of an acutely infected or convalescent person (recovering from disease) or a chronic, asymptomatic carrier. The incubation period (the time of interval between exposure to a infection and the appearance of the symptoms) of Enteric fever is 6-30 days. Typhoid (enteric) fever has a gradual onset. In the beginning, there is an increasing in feeling of fatigue along with a fever which increases with every passing day. By the fourth or fifth day, the fever may vary from low-grade to as high as 102°F–104°F (38°C–40°C). Known as the Step ladder fever pattern, this was once the hallmark symptoms of Typhoid (enteric) but is now witnessed in very few cases The patient may suffering from a headache, weakness, and loss of appetite. Paratyphoid fever is similar, but often less severe than typhoid (enteric) fever. Widal test is an agglutination test to detect antibodies (agglutinins) in a blood sample against two antigens (O & H) of bacteria, Salmonella typhi enterica. Agglutination refers to the visible clumps of particles when a particulate antigen combines with its antibody in the presence of optimum conditions for antigen-antibody reaction. When this test is performed on a slide, it is called widal slide agglutination and when it is carried out in a test tube, it is called tube agglutination. Widal test is tested by a tube agglutination is recommended over the slide agglutination method. The widal antigens used for the tests are “H” and “O” antigens of Salmonella Typhi and “H” antigens of S. Paratyphi.
How long will the reports take?
You will get the reports within 8 hours after collection of the blood sample.
What is the cost of the Widal test?
The cost of the Widal test in Faridabad is Rs. 250.
How often should I get tested for the Widal Test?
If you have been diagnosed with typhoid or paratyphoid fever, your doctor may advise you to get this test done once every 2 weeks based on your clinical condition and symptoms.
What is the normal values for a Widal test?
The normal ranges Negative / Positive.
What is the type of sample required?
We require blood for this test.
What time should I get the test done?
This test can be taken at any time during the day.
Is fasting required for a Widal test?
Fasting is not required, can be taken anytime.
Any other precautions to be taken before getting myself tested for a Widal test?
There are no Specific precautions for this test. Depending on the doctor.
How can I book a Widal test in Faridabad?
Log into www.orangehealth.in and submit your details. Our highly trained, professional, and vaccinated eMedics will be at your doorstep within 60 minutes or at the time booked by you.
Why should I book a Widal test with Orange Health in Faridabad?
Orange Health is the Fastest Diagnostic Lab. With us, you can get tested at home within 60 minutes of placing an order anywhere in Faridabad. Our trained, professional and vaccinated e Medic will be at your doorstep at the time selected by you.Your sample is safely transported at the optimal temperature to our NABL accredited and ICMR approved lab. The results will be delivered to you faster too!