Typhoid fever is more than just a common infection. It can quickly become serious if not diagnosed and treated early. Caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, this disease spreads through contaminated food and water, especially in areas where hygiene and sanitation may be compromised.
One of the most widely used methods to detect typhoid is the Widal test. It’s a simple blood test that can give early clues about a possible typhoid infection. In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Widal test, including how it works, when you should take it, and why it still plays an important role in diagnosing typhoid fever.
Widal test is a serological test, a kind of blood test for typhoid that identifies specific antibodies in your blood. These antibodies are made by your immune system when it comes across Salmonella typhi, the germ that causes typhoid fever.
When your body defends itself against this infection, it develops antibodies to two antigens on the bacteria:
The Widal test checks for the presence and level (called the titer) of these antibodies to determine whether you currently have or recently had a typhoid fever infection.
Advanced diagnostic equipment might not be readily available or affordable in most of India and other developing countries. In such cases, the Widal test for typhoid is still a viable and affordable option to screen for the disease, particularly during the initial stages when immediate attention is crucial.
While not perfect, it provides a quick indication of a possible infection. Combined with a doctor’s clinical judgment and other lab tests, the Widal test report can be a valuable piece in the diagnostic puzzle.
The Widal test procedure is simple and typically carried out at a diagnostic lab:
Result is indicated in titers, e.g., 1:80, 1:160, etc. A higher titer indicates a higher concentration of antibodies in the blood—pointing to a current or recent infection.
Interpreting the Widal test report needs expertise. A single test result, on its own, may not be enough to confirm typhoid. Here's why:
That's why physicians often take into account your symptoms, health history, and other test outcomes, such as blood cultures, before making a diagnosis.
Although the Widal test is still widely used, especially in typhoid-prone areas, it has some limitations:
Due to these reasons, the Widal test must be used with other tests for typhoid, including:
You may want to have a Widal test for typhoid if you are suffering from any of the following symptoms:
These symptoms can mimic many other illnesses, so it's critical to see a doctor and be tested early, particularly if you've just returned from travel to a region with inadequate sanitation or a reported typhoid outbreak.
Accuracy counts when it comes to your health. At Mahajan Imaging & Labs, we provide quality-assured, high-standard diagnostic services, including the Widal test and other high-tech blood tests for typhoid.
Here's why doctors and patients trust Mahajan Imaging & Labs:
While we do not provide treatment, our part in detecting diseases such as typhoid is essential and relied upon by some of the best doctors in the nation.
Early detection can make all the difference in controlling typhoid fever, a potentially dangerous disease if overlooked. The Widal test is still an important instrument in determining this illness in the early stages, particularly in regions where typhoid is prevalent.
For safe, quick, and professional testing, rely on Mahajan Imaging & Labs—your ally in timely and accurate diagnosis. Whether you require a typhoid test, Widal test report, or recommendation for additional tests, we are here to assist you at each step.
It's utilized to identify antibodies in the blood that are present after an individual gets infected with Salmonella typhi, the causative bacteria of typhoid fever.
No, it's among a range of tests. Physicians usually prescribe other tests, such as blood cultures, for better diagnosis.
Usually, the results are obtained in 24 hours.
No, the Widal test needs to be conducted in a certified diagnostic center where blood samples can be handled safely and appropriately.
Although useful, the test can occasionally produce false-positive or false-negative results. It's best interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms and other tests.
You can also book your routine health test in Delhi-NCR with us via our website, WhatsApp, or by contacting our customer care. For simple and fast booking, you can also chat with us on WhatsApp at +91 88828 97661 or talk to our support team at +91 11 4118 3838. We provide in-center testing as well as home sample collection to provide flexibility and convenience according to your choice.