Typhoid Fever Testing at TEKlaB Laboratory
Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, transmitted through contaminated food and water. Morocco's rainy season (November-March) increases typhoid risk. Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
Types of Typhoid Tests
Widal Test
Serological test detecting antibodies (TO, TH, AH, BH) against Salmonella.
Results: 24h | Sample: Blood
Blood Culture
Gold standard - grows bacteria from blood. Most accurate test.
Results: 48-72h | Sample: Blood
Stool Culture
Detects Salmonella in stool. Useful for carriers and late infection.
Results: 48-72h | Sample: Stool
Complete Typhoid Panel
Widal test + blood culture + CBC for comprehensive diagnosis.
Results: 48-72h | Recommended
When to Get Tested for Typhoid?
- High fever - Sustained fever over 39°C (102°F) for several days
- Digestive symptoms - Abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation
- Headache & weakness - Severe headache, muscle pain, fatigue
- Rose spots - Pink rash on trunk (20-30% of cases)
- Recent travel - Visited endemic areas
- Contaminated exposure - Consumed unsafe water or food
Typhoid Risk in Morocco
Typhoid risk increases during Morocco's rainy season (November-March) due to water contamination. Be cautious with:
- Street food and uncooked vegetables
- Untreated water sources
- Ice in drinks from uncertain sources
- Shellfish from contaminated waters
Sample Collection Instructions
Blood Sample
- No fasting required
- Best collected during fever spike
- Before antibiotic treatment if possible
- Takes 5 minutes
Stool Sample
- Fresh sample in sterile container
- Avoid contamination with urine
- Deliver within 2 hours
- More positive after 1st week
Understanding Widal Test Results
| Antibody | Significance | Positive Titer |
|---|---|---|
| TO (Typhoid O) | Active typhoid infection | ≥1:160 or rising |
| TH (Typhoid H) | Past infection or vaccination | ≥1:160 |
| AH (Paratyphoid A) | Paratyphoid A infection | ≥1:160 |
| BH (Paratyphoid B) | Paratyphoid B infection | ≥1:160 |
Important Notes
- Widal test can be false positive due to vaccination or past infection
- Blood culture is gold standard for definitive diagnosis
- Early antibiotic treatment may interfere with culture results
- Complete typhoid panel recommended for accurate diagnosis
Hours
- Mon-Fri07:30-19:00
- Saturday08:30-17:00
- Sunday09:00-14:00
Related Tests
Get Tested for Typhoid Fever Today
Early detection and treatment prevent serious complications. Rainy season increases risk.
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