12/10/2026
"Fever since yesterday. Should we do a dengue test today?"
Our physicians hear this question often this month. Pune city recorded 1,643 confirmed dengue cases from June to September, and September was the highest month. The honest answer is that the day of fever decides which test makes sense.
Here is what happens behind the test:
1. First 5 days of fever: NS1 antigen test. It looks for a protein of the virus itself.
2. From about day 5: IgM antibody test. It looks for your body's response, so it can be negative if done too early.
3. At every visit: CBC, for the platelet count and haematocrit. One report is a snapshot. The doctor watches the trend.
Something most families get wrong: the danger is not over when the fever comes down. That is the window when warning signs appear. Severe stomach pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding gums or nose, or unusual weakness means hospital the same day.
At home: paracetamol and fluids. No ibuprofen or aspirin unless your doctor says so.
Has anyone in your family had dengue this season? Which day of fever was it finally diagnosed? Tell us in the comments.
Dengue test and fever consultation in Chinchwad, PCMC
Chetna Hospital
Call 91586 81123
Chetna Hospital, Plot GP 116, G Block, MIDC, Sambhaji Nagar Road, Chinchwad, Pimpri-Chinchwad 411019
Areas served: Chinchwad, Pimpri, Akurdi, Nigdi, Ravet, Wakad, Bhosari, Moshi and across PCMC