FaridabadBy Dr B.C. Gupta, MD · 2026-09-15
Fever with body ache, headache and weakness is common during and after the monsoon in this region. Several different infections cause similar symptoms, and the tests used to tell them apart are not all useful at the same time. What follows is a plain explanation of the main fever tests and when each one is likely to give a clear answer.
Dengue: NS1 antigen and serology
Dengue is caused by a virus spread by the Aedes mosquito, which bites during the day. Two different dengue tests are used, and the right one depends on how many days you have had fever.
Dengue NS1 antigen is usually positive in the first few days of illness, from about day one to day five. This is why it is the preferred test when a patient comes early with fever.
Dengue serology looks for antibodies the body makes against the virus. These take longer to appear, so serology is more useful from about day five onwards. Testing too early can give a negative result even in a person who does have dengue, which is why the doctor may ask you to repeat the test after a few days.
Malaria and typhoid
Malaria also causes fever with chills and sweating. It is checked by a malaria antigen test or by examining a blood smear under the microscope. Both are available the same day.
Typhoid causes a steadily rising fever, often with stomach upset. The Widal test is one of the tests used for it, though it is not perfect and is best interpreted along with your symptoms and the doctor's examination.
Why one test is often not enough
These illnesses can look alike in the first few days. Because the timing of the test matters so much, the doctor may order more than one test, or repeat a test later. This is normal and does not mean anything is being missed. A complete blood count is often done alongside, because the changes it shows can support or argue against a particular infection.
Fever packages
The centre offers a fever screen and a fever comprehensive profile, which group the common fever tests into one set so that a single blood sample covers several possibilities. Ask us which one suits your situation, or ask your doctor to advise.
What to do if you have fever
Do not wait too long before getting advice, especially if the fever is high, if you feel very weak, or if you notice bleeding gums, a rash, or pain in the abdomen. These need medical attention promptly. For a test, call the centre to confirm the right test for your day of fever and the timing of your visit.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always discuss your results and any health concerns with your doctor.
