Widal Test (Slide Method) in Gurgaon - Price & Details

Typhoid and paratyphoid fever are endemic in developing countries, including India. The infections are caused by Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Paratyphi bacteria and can spread through contaminated food and water. A delay in diagnosis and treatment may lead to fatal complications. The Widal test is used as a rapid screening tool to support the diagnosis of typhoid and paratyphoid fever, collectively known as enteric fever. Although the Widal test is a non-definitive test, its simplicity and cost-effectiveness make it a preferred diagnostic tool in many developing countries.

The Widal test is a screening test used to help diagnose typhoid and paratyphoid fever. It also helps identify the higher-risk groups and is ordered during the following situations:

• Presence of symptoms - If you present with symptoms such as high persistent fever, diarrhoea or constipation, weight loss, rose spots on the body, typhoid/paratyphoid fever screening is indicated.
• Highly susceptible communities - Communities residing in poor sanitation areas are highly susceptible to typhoid and paratyphoid fever and need to be screened to help identify possible outbreaks.
• Exposure victims - Individuals who have consumed contaminated food or water or have come into contact with an infected person need to be screened for typhoid.
• Travellers - Anyone travelling to or returning from areas with high typhoid prevalence should be screened for typhoid fever.

• The Widal test helps detect typhoid and paratyphoid fever, collectively known as enteric fever.
• These are bacterial infections caused by a special group of bacteria, S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi.
• Enteric fever is highly communicable and spreads through contaminated food or water or contact with an infected person.
• Humans can carry and spread the infection, and poor hand hygiene after using the washroom can increase the risk of contamination.
• Typhoid and paratyphoid fever are clinically similar, with paratyphoid fever being the milder one with a faster recovery rate and fewer complications.

• Signs and symptoms of typhoid/paratyphoid fever are:

• High persistent fever (103 - 104 degrees Fahrenheit). 
• Aches (headaches or body aches).
• Digestive disturbances (diarrhoea or constipation).
• Rose-coloured spots (on the chest or stomach).
• Throat infection(cough or sore throat).
• Severe symptoms include: Intestinal bleeding, meningitis, or sepsis.

What to Expect Before the Test

• No fasting is required for the Widal test.
• Always inform your doctor about medications or vaccination history before the test.
• Consult your healthcare provider for any special instructions before the test.

What to Expect During the Sample Collection

A blood sample is required for the Widal test. You can expect the following during the sample collection:

• An elastic band is tied around your upper arm for better access to your veins.
• A needle is inserted into a vein of the inner arm to collect the blood sample.
• A bandage is placed over the puncture site to stop minor bleeding.

What to Expect After the Test

• This blood sample collection procedure is usually safe, with minimal to no risk.
• Feeling dizzy for a few seconds is normal; sit and relax for a few minutes to recover.

Note: If you notice anything unusual at the puncture site, such as persistent bleeding, a rash, or pain, consult your healthcare provider.

• The Widal test works by measuring the antibody levels (titres) in the body and is not done at regular intervals.
• The antibody levels are detected in response to four specific bacterial antigens, including S. Typhi (O, H) and S. Paratyphi (A, B).
• To know more about the parameters, refer to the table below:

The Widal test measures antibody formation against specific antigens and is expressed in titres. Refer to the table below for more details:

Important note: The normal reference ranges may vary from lab to lab. Baseline antibody titre levels are high in people living in an endemic area. Always refer to the ranges on your report and consult your doctor for better interpretation.

The Widal test is a non-definitive test. The diagnosis should always be made under an expert’s guidance by correlating test results with clinical symptoms. The test results may be associated with the following:

Disclaimer: This table is for educational purposes and provides a risk assessment only. These findings do not confirm a diagnosis. The Widal test is known to produce false-positive and false-negative results in various clinical situations. Always consult your doctor to understand how these results relate to your symptoms and overall health.

The Widal test is a supportive screening tool and cannot be used alone to confirm a diagnosis. It has certain limitations and is known to produce false results. Several factors can influence Widal test results, including:

• Timing of the test - During the first week of infection, antibody titres are low and hence give false-negative results.
• Endemic areas - Baseline antibody titre levels are high in endemic areas such as India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Africa.
• Vaccination - Previous vaccination can give a false-positive result, as antibody titres are high.
• Past infection - Antibody titres can stay elevated for months after infection, giving false-positive results.
• Other medical conditions - The presence of malaria or dengue can sometimes cause false-positive results.
• Use of antibiotics - Prior use of antibiotics can give false-negative results.

In Gurgaon, a Widal test booked via PharmEasy is commonly priced at about INR 199. The final charge can differ depending on the lab partner and service conditions. For a wider comparison, you can check Widal test prices across major cities in India.

PharmEasy offers the Widal test with home sample collection across Gurgaon at various residential sectors and corporate zones, such as:

• DLF Phase 1
• DLF Phase 2
• DLF Phase 3
• DLF Phase 4
• Sushant Lok
• Sector 14
• Sector 29
• Golf Course Road
• Sohna Road
• Palam Vihar
• Nirvana Country
• South City 1

Pro tip: To check availability at your location, visit the PharmEasy website or app, search for the test name, and enter your PIN code.