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

Typhoid and paratyphoid fevers, also known collectively as enteric fever, are endemic in developing countries, including India. Poor sanitation, untreated water supplies, and lack of awareness increase the risk of spread of these infections. The Widal test helps screen large numbers of people at the same time for enteric fever. This helps identify possible outbreaks and prevent them. The Widal test is now available in Lucknow at a cost-effective price, with added benefits such as home sample collection and digital report access.

The indications for the Widal test are the following:

• Suspected infection - If you have symptoms such as high, persistent fever; diarrhoea or constipation; or rose-coloured spots on the body, Widal testing is recommended to check for typhoid or paratyphoid fever.
• Living in poor sanitation areas - People in areas with poor sanitation or unsafe water supplies are at higher risk. Screening for enteric fever (typhoid and paratyphoid fever) is important in such areas to identify possible outbreaks.
• Exposed individuals - Anyone who has consumed contaminated food or water or has come into contact with an infected person needs to be screened for typhoid.
• Travellers - Anyone travelling or returning from areas with a high prevalence of typhoid fever should get screened.

The Widal test is used specifically to support the detection of typhoid fever and paratyphoid fever, collectively known as enteric fever. These illnesses are clinically similar, with paratyphoid fever generally being milder and with a faster recovery rate.

The following are the signs and symptoms of typhoid and paratyphoid fever:

• High persistent fever (103–104°F)
• 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: Blood in the stools may be observed in severe cases.
• Meningitis: Inflammation of protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
• Sepsis: A life-threatening condition caused by an extreme response to bacterial infection.

What to Expect Before the Test

• No fasting is required for the Widal test. Keep yourself hydrated before the 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 sample collection:

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

What to Expect After the Test

• The test procedure is usually safe, with minimal to no risks.
• 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 measures antibody levels, also called titres, in the body.
• 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 levels formed against four 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. The baseline antibody titre levels are high in people living in an endemic area. Always refer to the ranges in your report and consult your doctor for better interpretation.

The Widal test results can be interpreted as positive or negative. Clinical correlation and expert guidance are important to confirm a diagnosis. Refer to the table below for more details:

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 has certain limitations and may produce false results. Consider these factors during testing to prevent incorrect diagnosis. Several factors can influence the 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 cause false-positive results, as antibody titres are high.
• Past infection - Antibody titres can stay elevated for months after infection, giving false-positive results.
• Other medical conditions - Malaria or dengue can sometimes cause false-positive results.
• Use of antibiotics - Prior antibiotic use can cause false-negative results.

PharmEasy offers the Widal test at a price starting at INR 199 in Lucknow. The price may vary depending on your location. Check the list below to compare the Widal test price across major cities.

You can book the Widal Test in Lucknow through PharmEasy with convenient home sample collection across several localities, including :

• Gomti Nagar
• Indira Nagar
• Aliganj
• Mahanagar
• Hazratganj
• Aminabad
• Chowk
• Jankipuram
• Vikas Nagar
• Rajajipuram
• Alambagh
• Ashiyana
• SGPGI
• Chinhat
• Kalyanpur
• Sushant Golf City
• Vrindavan Yojna
• Krishna Nagar
• Nirala Nagar
• Charbagh

You can also check service availability during purchase by entering your pin code.