Farm workers, people who cut fodder or walk through tall grass, and children who play in fields are the usual patients. Call 8872524007 to book.
What the Scrub Typhus test checks
The test looks for IgM antibodies against Orientia tsutsugamushi. IgM appears in the blood after the first few days of fever, usually from around day 5. Depending on the day and the doctor's request, it's done as a rapid card test or an ELISA.
You may also see an older test called Weil-Felix on some prescriptions. It's cheap but much less accurate for scrub typhus, and most doctors now prefer IgM.
Why your doctor may order it
Doctors think of scrub typhus when a fever with headache, body ache and cough hasn't improved after several days, and dengue, malaria and typhoid tests have come back negative. The giveaway, when present, is an eschar: a painless black scab like a cigarette burn, often hidden in the armpit, groin, waistline or behind the ear. Many patients never notice it.
Cases tend to rise in the rainy and post-monsoon months, when vegetation is thick, and the infection is reported across north India, including Punjab and neighbouring Himachal. Untreated scrub typhus can affect the lungs, liver and kidneys, so it's worth testing when a doctor suspects it.
How to prepare
No fasting. Tell us how many days the fever has lasted and whether you've worked in fields or bushes recently. If your doctor has noticed a scab, mention it. Bring earlier fever profile or dengue reports so the doctor can compare.
Sample type and report time
Blood is drawn into a plain or gel tube for serum. Scrub typhus IgM is usually reported the same day or next day, depending on whether a rapid test or ELISA is used. For a patient too unwell to come in, book home sample collection by calling 8872524007.
Understanding your results
- IgM positive (reactive): supports a recent scrub typhus infection, especially with fever and an eschar.
- IgM negative: less likely, but a test done in the first four days can be negative because antibodies haven't formed yet. A repeat may be advised.
ELISA reports often give an optical density (OD) value against a cut-off; the cut-off printed on your report is the one that applies. Your doctor reads the result alongside your symptoms, examination and other blood tests such as liver enzymes and platelets.
FAQ
What does a scrub typhus bite look like?
The chigger bite itself is rarely felt. Days later, some people develop a small black, painless scab with a red rim, called an eschar. It's a strong clue but is missing in many cases.
Is scrub typhus the same as typhoid?
No. Typhoid is caused by Salmonella Typhi from contaminated food or water. Scrub typhus comes from a mite bite and needs its own test.
Where can I get a scrub typhus test near me in Banur?
If you need a scrub typhus test near me in Banur, Alpha Laboratory on M.C. Road collects samples from 7:00 am. We also visit homes in Banur and nearby villages.
Can scrub typhus spread from one person to another?
No, it spreads only through the mite bite. Family members don't need testing unless they have symptoms.
Book at Alpha Laboratory
Walk in to Alpha Laboratory, Municipal Committee, M.C. Road, Banur, any day of the week from 7:00 am. To book a scrub typhus test, call 8872524007 or WhatsApp us. Directions are on our contact page.