Antibody to Flavivirus (e.g., Dengue, Yellow Fever) Immunoglobulin G (IgG) in Serum/Plasma

What This Test Measures

The test looks for IgG antibodies, which are part of your immune system’s defense. These antibodies develop after your body has been exposed to a flavivirus, either through infection or vaccination. IgG antibodies remain in your blood for a longer period than other types of antibodies, helping your immune system remember the virus for future protection.

Why It Matters for Diagnosis

While IgG antibodies indicate past exposure, they may not appear immediately after infection. This test is often used alongside other tests (like IgM) to confirm a diagnosis of flavivirus infection, especially in cases where symptoms are unclear or recent exposure is suspected.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then tested for flavivirus-specific IgG antibodies using a sensitive laboratory method.

When You Might Need This Test

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve traveled to or lived in an area where flaviviruses are common, have symptoms of infection (e.g., fever, headache, muscle pain), or have been exposed to a known flavivirus (e.g., through a bite from an infected mosquito).