Arbovirus Testing
Note: this site is for informational purposes only. To view test results or book a test, use the NHS app in England or contact your GP.
Arbovirus testing checks for infections spread by mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects, such as dengue, Zika or West Nile virus. Your doctor may request this test if you have fever, headache, or rash after insect bites, especially following travel to tropical countries.
Who needs this test
Your doctor may request arbovirus testing if you develop symptoms after being bitten by mosquitoes or ticks. This is especially important if you’ve recently travelled to areas where these infections are common, such as tropical or subtropical regions.
The test is also used during outbreaks to identify which virus is causing infections in the community. This helps public health authorities track the spread and take preventive measures.
You’re more likely to need testing if you develop symptoms during mid to late summer in temperate areas, or year-round in warmer climates where mosquitoes are always active.
Preparing for your test
You don’t need any special preparation for arbovirus testing. The test uses a blood sample taken from a vein in your arm.
In some cases, particularly if meningitis or encephalitis is suspected, your doctor may also collect cerebrospinal fluid through a lumbar puncture. Your doctor will explain this procedure if it’s needed.
Understanding your results
What the test measures
Arboviruses are viruses spread between humans by blood-sucking insects like mosquitoes and ticks. The name comes from ‘arthropod-borne viruses’. These viruses are found throughout the world and are an important cause of meningitis and encephalitis.
Common arboviruses include dengue fever, Zika virus, chikungunya, West Nile virus, yellow fever, and Japanese encephalitis. Different viruses are found in different parts of the world.
The test can detect either antibodies your body makes against the virus, or the virus’s genetic material itself. Your doctor will choose the specific test based on your symptoms and where you’ve been travelling.
Most people infected with arboviruses have only mild symptoms that resolve within a few weeks. However, some infections can cause serious illness requiring hospital treatment.
What your results mean
If antibodies are detected
Positive IgM antibodies suggest a recent infection. These antibodies appear within a week or two of symptoms starting and usually disappear after a few months.
Positive IgG antibodies indicate either a recent or past infection. If IgG levels increase significantly between two samples taken 2 to 4 weeks apart, this confirms a recent infection.
If antibodies are found in cerebrospinal fluid, this suggests the virus has affected your brain or spinal cord. This finding needs urgent medical attention.
Because some arboviruses are similar to each other, an initial positive test may need confirmation with a different test method. Your doctor will explain if further testing is needed.
If viral genetic material is detected
A positive nucleic acid test confirms current infection with that specific virus. This test can detect infection before antibodies develop, but requires enough virus to be present in your sample.
For most arboviruses, virus levels in humans are quite low and don’t last very long. This means the test may be negative even if you’re infected, particularly if tested later in the illness.
If tests are negative
Negative results may mean your symptoms are caused by something other than an arbovirus infection. This could be bacterial meningitis or another viral illness.
However, testing too soon after infection can give negative results because your body hasn’t had time to produce antibodies yet. Your doctor may repeat testing later if arbovirus infection is still suspected.
Important considerations
Having antibodies doesn’t predict how severe your illness will be or how you’ll recover. Some people with high antibody levels have mild symptoms, whilst others with lower levels become seriously ill.
Different strains of the same virus can cause different levels of illness. Researchers study these strains to understand outbreaks and track how viruses spread geographically.
What happens next
Most arbovirus infections are managed with supportive care. This means rest, fluids, and medicines to reduce fever and pain. There are no specific antiviral treatments for most arboviruses.
If you develop serious symptoms like severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, or difficulty moving, you may need hospital treatment. Your doctor will monitor you closely and provide appropriate care.
Your doctor will advise you on preventing future infections. This includes using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding travel to affected areas during outbreaks if possible.
What can affect your results
Several factors can affect your test results:
- timing of the test (antibodies take time to develop)
- previous infections with similar viruses (can cause cross-reactions)
- recent vaccinations (if available for that virus)
- weakened immune system (may produce fewer antibodies)
Tell your doctor about any recent travel, vaccinations, and previous infections. This information helps interpret your results accurately.
Other tests you might need
Several factors can affect your test results:
- timing of the test (antibodies take time to develop)
- previous infections with similar viruses (can cause cross-reactions)
- recent vaccinations (if available for that virus)
- weakened immune system (may produce fewer antibodies)
Tell your doctor about any recent travel, vaccinations, and previous infections. This information helps interpret your results accurately.
About arbovirus infections
Arbovirus infections are spread by mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies. Most infections cause mild flu-like symptoms, but some can lead to serious illness affecting the brain, liver, or other organs.
For more information about preventing insect bites whilst travelling, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre and NHS Fit for Travel.