Lab test · Infection
Widal Test
Typhoid fever check
- Blood sample
- No fasting
- Report within 24 hours
- Home collection
What this test is for
Typhoid fever check
The Widal test looks for antibodies against the bacteria that cause typhoid and paratyphoid fever (Salmonella Typhi and Paratyphi). It has been used for many years, but it is not very accurate: it can be positive in people who had typhoid or a typhoid vaccine in the past or who have other infections, and it can be negative early in the illness. A blood culture is more reliable for diagnosing typhoid.
Why a doctor may order it
- If you have had a fever for several days and typhoid is suspected
- If fever comes with headache, tummy pain, constipation or diarrhoea
- As an additional clue alongside other tests for prolonged fever
How to prepare
Fasting: Not needed.
You can eat normally; fasting is not part of this test. Tell your doctor if you have had a typhoid vaccine, typhoid in the past, or antibiotics during this illness, as these can affect how the result is read. Keep taking any medicines your doctor has prescribed.
At home
- Sample
- Blood sample
- How it works
- The collector takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm at your home, so you do not have to travel while feverish. The draw is quick.
- Report
- Within 24 hours of collection.
What the results can mean
The report shows antibody levels, called titres, against the typhoid and paratyphoid 'O' and 'H' antigens. A high or rising titre can support a diagnosis of typhoid, but falsely positive and falsely negative results are common, and a single test cannot confirm typhoid. Your doctor will interpret the result with your symptoms and may ask for a blood culture or a repeat test.
What's included
One test: Widal Test, from one blood sample.
Related tests
- Blood Culture and SensitivityA blood culture checks for bacteria or yeasts in the bloodstream.
- 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.
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP), QuantitativeInfection & inflammation marker৳350
- Malaria Parasite (MP) Blood FilmThis test looks for malaria parasites in a drop of your blood that is spread on a glass slide, stained and examined under a microscope.
- Dengue NS1 AntigenEarly dengue detection৳190
- Leptospira IgM Test (Leptospirosis)Leptospirosis (rat fever) check৳2,500
Questions people ask
Is the Widal test reliable for typhoid?
Not on its own. It can give false positive results after past infection, vaccination or other illnesses, and false negatives early on. Doctors prefer a blood culture when possible.
When should the Widal test be done?
Antibodies take time to appear, so the test is more meaningful after the first week of fever. A blood culture is most useful in the first week.
What is the difference between Widal and Typhidot?
Both look for antibodies to typhoid bacteria. Typhidot is a rapid test for specific antibodies, while Widal measures antibody levels in the blood. Neither is as reliable as a blood culture.
How much does a Widal test cost in Dhaka?
With Mukti Health the price is ৳310, 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 Widal 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 Widal report take?
The report is usually ready within 24 hours of the sample being collected.