WIDAL TEST (TUBE METHOD)

What is the Widal test?

The Widal test is a type of blood test that helps doctors to examine whether a person has typhoid fever.

Typhoid fever is an enteric fever which is caused by the salmonella typhi. This bacterium enters the body due to ingestion of contaminated food or water. Once the bacteria enters into the body, our immune system develops a response against the bacteria by developing antibodies. The ideal check for the presence of these antibodies in the body. If the antibodies are present, it means the person has a typhoid infection.

Why do I need to take the Widal test?

If you have the symptoms of typhoid fever, then you should get yourself tested for the infection. The symptoms of typhoid fever are listed below:

• Lethargic
• Unexplained high fever
• Headache and lightheadedness
• Diarrhoes
• Constipation
• Severe abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Presence of red spots on the body

How do I prepare for the Widal test?

• Inform your doctor about your medical history
• Fasting is generally not required for this test
• No further specific preparation is required for this test

What is the procedure for the Widal test?

The procedure for the Widal test is listed below:

• A phlebotomist will tie a rubber band around your arm so that they can find the vein from which the blood sample will be drawn properly.
• After finding the appropriate vein, an alcohol swab will be used to clean the area, and then a sterile needle will be injected into the vein to collect your blood sample
• During this time, you might feel a slight pinching pain due to needle insertion 
• After the collection of your blood sample. Your puncture site will be covered with a bandage or a cotton ball, and a rubber band will be removed
• The collected blood sample will then be sent to the lab for further analysis. The analysis of your blood sample will be done by the slide and tube method.

Tube Method: In this method, multiple tubes are used, each of which have different serum dilution. Antigens are added to each tube, and then the mixture is incubated for the whole night. The tube, which shows a clump, means the titre of antibodies is present in the bloodstream. This whole process requires 24 to 48 hours

What are the limitations of widal test?

Limitations of widal test are listed below:

• The Widal test takes time (to determine antibody titre), and many times when a diagnosis is made, it is too late to begin an antibiotic prescription.
• The Widal test should be interpreted in terms of baseline titers in a healthy local population.
• The Widal test may be mistakenly positive in patients who have previously been vaccinated or infected with S. Typhi.
• Aside from cross-reactivity with other Salmonella species, the test does not distinguish between a present infection and a past illness or typhoid vaccine.

What are the prevention tips for typhoid fever?

Prevention tips for typhoid fever are listed below:

• Drink safe water
• Wash your hands with soap and water properly before eating
• Avoid eating raw vegetables 
• Avoid eating raw meat
• Follow a sedentary lifestyle
• Eat freshly cooked 
• Get yourself vaccinated if travelling in an area where typhoid prevalence is high

Conclusion

Typhoid fever is the most common fever that can be easily transmitted through contaminated food or water; therefore, it is very important to live a sedentary lifestyle. Typhoid fever can happen to anyone, but people who live in an area where the prevalence of typhoid is high are at high risk of developing this infection. If you think you are suffering from typhoid fever, then get yourself checked in a timely manner because timely management of the disease can avoid severe complications, and health is the top priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Typhoid fever is caused by which bacteria?

Typhoid fever is caused by Salmonella typhi.

What does the positive Widal test report mean?

A positive Widal blood test report means that antibodies are present in your blood, and you might have a typhoid infection

What does the Negative Widal test report mean?

A negative Widal blood test report means that antibodies are not present in your blood, and you don't have a typhoid infection

What is the Widal blood test cost in Delhi?

The Widal blood test price in Delhi may range from INR 500 to INR 1000; the prices may vary by diagnostic center based on the location, technology, and the facilities available at the diagnostic center.

Where can I find the Widal blood test near me?

You can book your Widal blood test near your location at the best price in Delhi at the city Xray clinic. To know more information, please visit our website.

What are the side effects of a Widal blood test?

There are no side effects of widal blood test; you might feel a little pain or pinching sensation when the needle is inserted into the vein for blood sample collection.