Lab test · Infection
Dengue NS1 Antigen
Early dengue detection
- Blood sample
- No fasting
- Report within 24 hours
- Home collection
What this test is for
Early dengue detection
The dengue NS1 test looks for NS1, a protein made by the dengue virus, in the blood. NS1 is present from the first day of fever, so this test can detect dengue early, usually within the first five days of illness and before antibodies appear. A positive result helps your doctor confirm dengue quickly and plan close monitoring.
Why a doctor may order it
- If you have a sudden high fever in the first few days, especially during the dengue season
- If fever comes with headache, pain behind the eyes, body aches or a rash
- When someone at home or nearby has had dengue
- To tell dengue apart from other causes of fever, such as typhoid or chikungunya
How to prepare
Fasting: Not needed.
You do not need to fast for this test. NS1 is easiest to detect in the first few days of fever, so book it as early as your doctor advises. Keep drinking plenty of fluids and continue any medicines your doctor has given you. Ask your doctor before taking any painkiller, because some, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, are not advised when dengue is suspected.
At home
- Sample
- Blood sample
- How it works
- The collector comes to you, sparing a journey while you are feverish, and takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. It only takes a few minutes.
- Report
- Within 24 hours of collection.
What the results can mean
A positive NS1 result means dengue is likely. A negative result does not fully rule dengue out, especially if the test is done after the first few days or in a second dengue infection, so your doctor may order a dengue antibody test or repeat tests. Whatever the result, your doctor will decide how you should be monitored, often with repeated platelet counts.
What's included
One test: Dengue NS1 Antigen, from one blood sample.
Related tests
- Dengue IgM and IgG AntibodiesDengue infection (current or past)৳250
- Platelet CountPlatelets are tiny cell fragments in the blood that help it clot and stop bleeding.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)A complete blood count looks at the three main types of cells in your blood: red blood cells, which carry oxygen; white blood cells, which fight infection; and platelets, which help blood to clot.
- Dengue Fever Test PackageThis package combines three blood tests used when dengue is suspected.
- Anti-Streptolysin O (ASO) TitreStrep infection, rheumatic fever৳350
- Kala-azar Test (rK39 Rapid Antibody Test)Kala-azar detection৳590
Questions people ask
When should the dengue NS1 test be done?
It is most useful in the first few days of fever, usually within the first five days. After that, NS1 levels fall and a dengue antibody (IgM/IgG) test becomes more useful.
Can the NS1 test be negative in dengue?
Yes. NS1 can be missed if the test is done late in the illness or in some repeat dengue infections. If dengue is still suspected, your doctor may order other tests.
What is the difference between dengue NS1 and IgM/IgG?
NS1 detects part of the virus itself and is useful early in the fever. IgM and IgG are antibodies the body makes later, from about the fifth day, and can show a current or past infection.
What are the warning signs in dengue?
Seek urgent medical care for severe tummy pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the gums or nose, blood in vomit or stool, restlessness, drowsiness, or cold, clammy skin. These signs can appear as the fever settles.
How much does a Dengue NS1 test cost in Dhaka?
With Mukti Health the price is ৳190, and the sample is collected at your home in Dhaka. You see the price again before you confirm the booking in the Mukti Health app.
Can I do the Dengue NS1 test at home in Dhaka?
Yes. Book it in the Mukti Health app and a trained sample collector comes to your home in Dhaka to take the blood sample. You do not need to go to a laboratory.
How long does the Dengue NS1 report take?
The report is usually ready within 24 hours of the sample being collected.