Key takeaways
- The NS1 antigen test works best in the first 1–5 days of fever.
- IgM antibodies become detectable from around day 5 of illness.
- Platelet count is monitored with a CBC - the critical phase is often days 3–7.
- Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin in suspected dengue; use only what your doctor advises.
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- Dengue NS1 Antigen
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- Dengue IgG IgM NS1(Rapid)
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- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
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Every monsoon, dengue cases rise sharply in Mumbai. Dengue is a viral infection spread by the Aedes mosquito, and it can look almost identical to other monsoon fevers such as malaria, typhoid and chikungunya in the first few days. Choosing the right test at the right time makes diagnosis faster and more reliable.
Which dengue test, and when?
| Test | Detects | Best time |
|---|---|---|
| NS1 antigen | A protein from the virus itself | Day 1–5 of fever |
| Dengue IgM | Early antibodies from the immune response | From about day 5 onwards |
| Dengue IgG | Later antibodies; also past infection | Later in illness; helps identify repeat infection |
Because the right test depends on the day of fever, many doctors order a combined NS1 + IgM + IgG test (₹1,099) so that no stage is missed. The NS1 antigen test is ₹949 at HWP Diagnostic.
Why platelet count is monitored
Dengue commonly lowers platelets and white cells. Doctors repeat a CBC - often daily during the critical phase - to watch the platelet count and haematocrit. The critical phase often starts around days 3–7, sometimes just as the fever comes down, so do not stop monitoring just because the temperature improves.
Symptoms of dengue
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headache and pain behind the eyes
- Intense body, muscle and joint pain
- Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
- Skin rash
Warning signs - get medical help immediately
- Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
- Bleeding from gums or nose, blood in vomit or stool, red spots on skin
- Restlessness, drowsiness or confusion
- Cold, clammy skin or difficulty breathing
- Very little urine
Ruling out other monsoon fevers
Doctors often test for several infections at once: malaria antigen (₹549), Widal for typhoid (₹599) and a CBC. Our fever packages combine these into one home collection.
Care at home
Rest, drink plenty of fluids (water, ORS, coconut water, soups) and take only paracetamol for fever as advised by your doctor. Avoid ibuprofen, aspirin and other painkillers unless a doctor prescribes them, as they can increase the risk of bleeding in dengue.
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Dengue NS1 Antigen
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Dengue IgG IgM NS1(Rapid)
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Complete Blood Count (CBC)
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Malaria Antigen Test
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Widal Test (Typhoid)
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More tests related to this topic
Other Fever tests you can book with free home sample collection.
CRP (C-Reactive Protein)
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Anti - CHIKUNGUNYA IgG
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Anti - CHIKUNGUNYA IgM
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Chikungunya Combo Rapid Test
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Chikungunya IgG Rapid antibody
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Chikungunya IgM Rapid antibody
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Chikungunya RNA Detection by Real Time PCR - EDTA Plasma
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Chikungunya RNA Detection by Real Time PCR - Serum
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Dengue - IgG (CLIA)
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Dengue - IgG (ELISA)
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Dengue - IgM (CLIA)
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Dengue - IgM (ELISA)
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Health packages that already include these tests, and tests people usually add.
Frequently asked questions
Which dengue test should I do on day 1 or 2 of fever?
The NS1 antigen test is most useful in the first 1–5 days of fever, when the virus is circulating in the blood. Antibody (IgM) tests become useful from around day 5 onwards.
Can dengue be diagnosed with a CBC?
No. A CBC cannot confirm dengue, but falling platelets and white cells support the diagnosis and are monitored closely during the illness.
What platelet count is dangerous in dengue?
Doctors watch the trend rather than one number. A rapid fall, a count below about 1 lakh with warning signs, or any bleeding needs prompt medical attention.
HWP Diagnostic Editorial Team
Health guides written by the team at HWP Diagnostic, Mumbai, to help you understand your tests before you book. This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice - reference ranges vary between labs, so always discuss your results with your doctor. Read our editorial policy. Photos: Pexels.
