Dengue is a viral infection spread by mosquito bites. NS1 is a protein released by the dengue virus very early in the infection, so detecting it allows for early diagnosis. The Dengue NS1 antigen test looks for this viral protein in your blood. A positive result indicates a current, early dengue infection.

Before the Test

• Tell your doctor when your fever started, as timing affects which dengue test is best.

• A negative NS1 result later in the illness does not fully rule out dengue.

• 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 dengue early in someone with fever, body aches, and headache, especially during an outbreak.

• To allow early diagnosis before antibodies appear.

• To help guide monitoring and supportive care.

• To tell dengue apart from other fevers.

• Best done in the first few days of fever, when the NS1 protein is present. If done later in the illness, antibody tests may be more useful.