Chikungunya IgM Test

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans through infected mosquitoes, causing symptoms like fever, joint pain, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, and rash. Most patients recover fully, but joint pain may persist in some cases.

The commonly prescribed Chikungunya blood test is the IgM Chikungunya test. This serology test detects IgM antibodies which your body generates in response to the virus.

The Chikungunya test price varies depending on geographical location and the specific laboratory. At Metropolis Healthcare, the test's cost is around Rs 1,210.

The most efficient way to diagnose Chikungunya is through a Chikungunya blood test. Your doctor will collect a small sample of your blood, which will then be sent to a lab and tested for the presence of IgM antibodies.

If you exhibit symptoms such as fever, joint pain, rash, or muscle pain, or if you've recently travelled to an area where Chikungunya outbreaks have occurred, your doctor may recommend an IgM Chikungunya Test.

A negative result means that IgM antibodies were not detected in your blood sample. This usually signifies that you haven't been infected with the virus.

While most people can recover at home, severe cases, especially in individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, may require hospitalization.

Dietary habits can influence recovery from Chikungunya. Patients are advised to avoid spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine and processed foods. Instead, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins can support recovery.

Although rare, there have been instances where individuals have contracted Chikungunya more than once. It's important to continue preventive measures even after recovery.

Prevention strategies focus on protecting yourself from mosquitoes by using repellents, wearing protective clothing and avoiding mosquito hotspots particularly during peak mosquito activity hours.

While usually not life-threatening, Chikungunya can lead to severe and persistent joint pain, eyes, heart or neurological complications in some people.

While fever and other symptoms might resolve within a week or two, joint pain may persist for months or even years.

Chikungunya primarily affects the joints and muscles. In severe cases, it can affect the eyes, heart and nervous system.

Unlike dengue fever, Chikungunya usually doesn't cause a significant decrease in platelet count.

There is no specific antiviral drug for treating Chikungunya. However, symptomatic treatment involving pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs and adequate rest is recommended.

This test measures the presence of IgM antibodies specific to the Chikungunya virus in your blood.

• Diagnose a recent Chikungunya virus infection.
• Guide appropriate treatment and management strategies.
• Monitor the immune response to the virus.
• Help prevent the transmission of the virus to others.
• Provide early detection for better recovery outcomes.
• Assist in public health surveillance efforts.

This test is recommended if you:

• Have symptoms of Chikungunya like fever, joint pain, and rash.
• Live in or have travelled to areas with Chikungunya outbreaks.
• Need confirmation of a Chikungunya infection for medical care.
• Are part of epidemiological studies tracking the spread of Chikungunya.

Abnormal results may suggest a current or recent Chikungunya infection. Consult your doctor for interpretation and further testing, if needed. Follow appropriate treatment measures as advised by healthcare providers.

You will have a small blood sample collected from your vein for testing. This process involves:

• Cleaning the area where blood will be drawn.
• Inserting a needle to draw blood into a tube.
• Bandaging the site once blood is collected

Before the test:

• Ensure you have provided proper clinical history details.
• Avoid eating or drinking anything except water before the test, if needed.
• Follow any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider for optimal test results.

Other tests often ordered with this include:

• Fever Profile Detection by Real Time Multiplex PCR Test
• Fever Profile (Super Mini) Test
• Fever Profile (Super Maxi)

Chikungunya Fever Blood Test or IgM Anti-Chikungunya Antibody Test