Chikungunya IgM Antibody Test

ChikungunyaIgM antibody test is conductedwhen the symptoms have been seen for more than a week. IgM (Immunoglobulin M) is first seen to develop, followed by IgG (Immunoglobulin G).IgM antibodies are produced by the body in response to Chikungunya infection. If the IgM test for Chikungunya is positive, then it indicates a current or recent infection.

The sample required for this test is a blood sample. This sample is collected from a vein, usually in the arm and is collected in a syringe or vial. This is referred to as venepuncture.

 You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for up to eight hours before the test is administered. Depending on what medications you take, your doctor will inform you whether or not you need to avoid them for some time before the test so that your results aren’t affected.

Doctors should also be informed of other tests you’ve undergone in the recent past, as some substances- such as radioactive substances- may affect the results of the test.

Your doctor will recommend this test for you if he sees the signs of chikungunya fever in you. The symptoms include:

• Which may be as high as 104 degrees
• Joint/muscle pain
• Severe headache
• Rash on the skin
• swelling around the joints

Chikungunya is a virus that is transmitted from one person to another by the bite of an infected female mosquito. After being bitten by an infected mosquito, symptoms of the illness are generally seen between 4 and 8 days later but could possibly be seen as early as 2 days or as late as 12 days after infection.

Chikungunya causes a rapid onset of fever and severe joint pain. Fatigue, muscular discomfort, headache, and rash are some of the other indications and symptoms. Chikungunya’s signs and symptoms often develop two to seven days after being bitten by an infected insect. There is no effective antiviral therapy for chikungunya. The illness, on the other hand, has a short duration and seldom leads to significant consequences, but the symptoms can be quite painful, and in severe cases, even disabling for the duration of the disease. With ample rest, fluids, and medicines, the goal of treatment is to alleviate symptoms.

The Chikungunya virus is easily transmitted and has the potential to grow into an epidemic if not contained. It is therefore essential that the virus is detected at an early stage and the necessary care taken to ensure that the virus does not spread and cause fatalities.

Symptoms of infection with this virus last for varied periods of time and could be more severe if not treated.