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Medical information Clinical review pending

Infection Testing

Salmonella Typhi RNA Detection Qualitative Test

Detects Salmonella Typhi RNA to diagnose typhoid fever using Real Time PCR. Essential for individuals with symptoms or exposure risk. Results available within 36 hours.

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
Whole blood, rectal swab, food sample, or water sample. Confirm specific sample type required with the laboratory before booking.
Results
Results are typically available within 36 hours on the 3rd working day. Confirm exact turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required for this test. Inform the laboratory about any relevant clinical history or recent antibiotic use.
Test priceKSh 10,200

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 Salmonella Typhi RNA Detection Qualitative 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.

  • ✓Suspected typhoid fever based on symptoms (e.g., prolonged fever, abdominal pain).
  • ✓Exposure to potentially contaminated food or water.
  • ✓Living in or travelling to areas with high typhoid prevalence.
  • ✓Monitoring for infection in high-risk individuals.
  • ✓Public health surveillance for typhoid outbreaks.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps diagnose active Salmonella Typhi infection (typhoid fever) by detecting the bacteria's genetic material (RNA). Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment, reducing the severity and spread of the disease.
The Salmonella Typhi RNA Detection Qualitative Test is a vital diagnostic tool used to identify the presence of Salmonella Typhi, the bacterium responsible for typhoid fever. This test employs advanced Real Time PCR technology, allowing for rapid and accurate detection of the pathogen’s RNA in various sample types. Early detection is crucial as typhoid fever can lead to severe complications if left untreated.

This test specifically measures the RNA of Salmonella Typhi in the sample provided. By detecting the genetic material of the bacteria, healthcare providers can confirm the presence of an active infection, allowing for timely treatment interventions.

Individuals who exhibit symptoms of typhoid fever, such as prolonged fever, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal disturbances, should consider this test. Additionally, those with known exposure to contaminated food or water, or residing in areas with high prevalence of typhoid fever, are also recommended to undergo testing.

Results from the Salmonella Typhi RNA Detection Qualitative Test will indicate the presence or absence of Salmonella Typhi RNA. A positive result confirms an active infection, while a negative result suggests that the bacteria are not present in the sample. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to interpret the results accurately and to discuss further steps if necessary.
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 specific patient preparation is required for this test. Inform the laboratory about any relevant clinical history or recent antibiotic use.
SampleWhole blood, rectal swab, food sample, or water sample. Confirm specific sample type required with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyReal Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). This method amplifies and detects specific RNA sequences unique to Salmonella Typhi.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects the presence of Salmonella Typhi RNA, indicating an active infection. It cannot determine the severity of the infection or antibiotic resistance patterns. A negative result does not completely rule out infection, especially if the sample was collected very early or late in the illness. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
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

Salmonella Typhi is the bacterium that causes typhoid fever, a serious illness characterized by high fever, weakness, stomach pain, headache, loss of appetite, and sometimes a rash.
The Real Time PCR method used is highly accurate for detecting Salmonella Typhi RNA. However, accuracy can be influenced by sample quality and collection timing. Discuss results with your doctor.
The test can be performed on various samples, including whole blood, rectal swabs, food, or water. Your doctor or the laboratory will advise on the most appropriate sample type.
Results are typically available within 36 hours on the 3rd working day. Confirm with the laboratory for the most current turnaround time.
A positive result indicates that Salmonella Typhi RNA was detected in your sample, suggesting an active infection. Your doctor will interpret this result in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
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.

Explore partnerships
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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