Chikungunya is a viral infection spread by mosquito bites. It often causes fever and strong joint pain. IgM is an antibody your body makes early when fighting a new infection. The Chikungunya IgM test looks for IgM antibodies against the chikungunya virus in your blood. Their presence suggests a recent or current chikungunya infection.

Before the Test

Tell your doctor when your symptoms started, as timing affects how the result is read.

A negative result early in the illness does not fully rule out infection.

Fasting is not required.

During the Test

A trained Orange Health Labs professional will collect your sample during the visit.

Follow the instructions given to you at the time of collection.

The sample is labelled and sent to the laboratory for testing.

Let the collection team know if you feel unwell during the procedure.

It is recommended:

To confirm chikungunya in someone with fever and joint pains, especially during an outbreak or after mosquito exposure.

To tell chikungunya apart from other mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue.

To explain ongoing joint pain that may follow the infection.

Usually done a few days after symptoms start, since IgM antibodies take some days to appear. If tested too early, the result can be negative even when you have the infection.