- Exam
- NEET
- Subject
- Zoology
- Chapter
- Human Health and Diseases
NEET · Zoology · Human Health and Diseases
What is the Widal test used for?
Options
- AConfirming the presence of a virus
- BConfirming the presence of bacteria
- CConfirming the presence of a fungus
- DConfirming the presence of typhoid fever
Correct answer
D. Confirming the presence of typhoid fever
Step-by-step solution
Salmonella typhi is a pathogenic bacterium which causes typhoid fever in human beings. These pathogens generally enter the small intestine through food and water contaminated with them and migrate to other organs through blood. Sustained high fever (39° to 40°C), weakness, stomach pain, constipation, headache and loss of appetite are some of the common symptoms of this disease. Intestinal perforation and death may occur in severe cases. The Widal test is used to confirm the presence of typhoid fever, which is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi.Mary Mallon was a cook by profession and was a typhoid carrier who continued to spread typhoid for several years through the food she prepared. Salmonella typhi is a pathogenic bacterium which causes typhoid fever in human beings.