What this test measures
This rapid lateral-flow card test detects IgM and IgG antibodies against dengue virus in serum, plasma or whole blood. Results appear in 15–20 minutes.
IgM appears from day 4–5 of fever and persists for 2–3 months. IgG appears slowly in primary infection (after day 7) and rapidly in secondary infection. The IgG/IgM combination helps identify primary vs secondary infection — important because secondary dengue carries higher risk of severe disease.
Why it matters
India sees massive monsoon-season dengue epidemics. The dengue IgG/IgM rapid test is widely used after day 5 of fever, when NS1 sensitivity starts to drop. It is also useful for outbreak triage, OPDs, and fever clinics where same-day results matter.
NCDC and ICMR recommend confirmation by NIV-validated MAC-ELISA for IgM in atypical, severe, or outbreak cases. For primary clinical use in symptomatic patients during a known outbreak, the rapid test is acceptable.
How to prepare
No fasting required. The test uses serum, plasma or whole blood. Mention day of fever onset.
Markers & reference ranges
Reference ranges below are typical adult values. Your lab's reported range may differ slightly based on the assay platform and patient demographics — always read your report against the range printed on it.
| Marker | Normal range | If low | If high |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dengue IgM (Rapid) (Reactive / Non-reactive)[1] | Non-reactive (Negative) | Non-reactive — no recent dengue antibody. If fever started < 5 days ago, IgM may be too early — combine with NS1. | Reactive — recent dengue infection (day 5 onward). Lasts 2–3 months. |
| Dengue IgG (Rapid) (Reactive / Non-reactive)[1] | Reactive in past infection | Non-reactive — no past dengue exposure. | Reactive — past dengue infection. Combined with NS1+/IgM+ during acute fever, indicates secondary infection with higher severity risk. |
Dengue IgM/IgG interpretation
| IgM | IgG | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Positive | Negative | Acute primary dengue infection (day 5+). |
| Positive | Positive | Acute secondary infection (if early in fever) or convalescent primary. |
| Negative | Positive | Past dengue exposure. |
| Negative | Negative | Either no dengue, or too early (combine with NS1 in first 5 days). |
Frequently asked questions
How early in fever should I do the IgM/IgG test?
IgM rises from day 5 of fever. Testing earlier may be falsely negative — combine with NS1 in days 1–4.
My IgG is positive in early fever. Is that secondary dengue?
Likely, if NS1 or IgM is also positive. Early high IgG in acute fever suggests secondary infection — higher risk of severe dengue. Monitor closely.
How long does IgM stay positive?
Typically 2–3 months. A positive IgM does not always mean current fever is from dengue.
Should I combine with NS1?
Yes — NS1 + IgM + IgG (the full Dengue Profile) is the most informative panel, especially in patients with fever of uncertain duration.
How accurate is the rapid test?
IgM rapid sensitivity ~85–95% after day 5; specificity ~95–98%. ELISA confirmation is preferred in atypical or severe cases.
Is there a dengue vaccine?
Yes (Qdenga, CYD-TDV) — internationally approved but with limited availability and selective indication in India. Vector control remains primary prevention.
What should I avoid if I have dengue?
Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other NSAIDs — they increase bleeding risk. Use paracetamol only. Stay well hydrated.
Related Infectious Disease tests
Tests commonly ordered alongside DENGUE RAPID TEST (IGG/IGM), or that help interpret an unexpected result.
Sources & references
- NIV Pune — Dengue · accessed 2026-05-30T00:00:00.000Z
- NCDC India — Dengue · accessed 2026-05-30T00:00:00.000Z
- WHO — Dengue Fact Sheet · accessed 2026-05-30T00:00:00.000Z
- ICMR India — Dengue Guidelines · accessed 2026-05-30T00:00:00.000Z
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