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Medical information Clinical review pending

Infection Testing

Epstein Barr Virus Antibodies to Viral Capsid Antigen VCA IgG IgM Test

This test detects antibodies to the Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) to help determine if you have a current or past infection. It measures IgG and IgM antibodies against the viral capsid antigen (VCA).

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum collected in an SST tube.
Results
Results are typically available the same day if the sample is received by 9 AM. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 8,400

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Epstein Barr Virus Antibodies to Viral Capsid Antigen VCA IgG IgM Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Symptoms suggestive of infectious mononucleosis (e.g., fatigue, sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes).
  • ✓Diagnosis of EBV-related conditions.
  • ✓Monitoring immune response to EBV.
  • ✓Evaluating potential causes of prolonged fatigue or illness.
  • ✓Assessing risk factors for EBV infection.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test is used to diagnose current or past Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) infection by detecting specific antibodies (IgG and IgM) against the viral capsid antigen (VCA). It helps differentiate between recent and past infections.
The Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) is a common virus known for causing infectious mononucleosis. This test helps identify if you have been infected with EBV, either recently or in the past. It measures specific antibodies (IgG and IgM) your body produces in response to the virus's viral capsid antigen (VCA). Understanding your immune response to EBV is important as the virus is linked to various health conditions. This test is valuable for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of EBV infection or those with risk factors.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for this test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Sample2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum collected in an SST tube.
MethodologyImmunoassay (e.g., ELISA or Chemiluminescence) for the detection of VCA IgG and VCA IgM antibodies.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
Antibody levels can vary between individuals. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional in conjunction with clinical findings. This test does not detect the virus itself, only the immune response.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

This test detects antibodies (IgG and IgM) produced by your body in response to the Epstein Barr Virus (EBV), specifically targeting the viral capsid antigen (VCA).
The presence of IgM antibodies usually suggests a recent or current EBV infection. IgG antibodies typically indicate a past infection or immunity.
Individuals experiencing symptoms like severe fatigue, sore throat, fever, and swollen glands should consider this test. Your doctor may also recommend it based on your medical history.
A blood sample is required for this test. The laboratory will collect approximately 2 mL of serum.
Results are generally available the same day if the sample reaches the lab by 9 AM. Please confirm the exact turnaround time with the laboratory.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

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09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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