What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing fever, headache, muscle aches, or a rash after a recent tick bite or possible exposure to infected lice or fleas. It helps detect an active Rickettsia infection, the bacteria behind illnesses like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and typhus, during the early acute phase. Because these infections can become serious quickly, catching them early with this test can guide fast treatment decisions.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your online account with a clear explanation of what a 'detected' or 'not detected' result means. If your result is positive, treatment usually needs to start right away, so it's important to seek medical care promptly since this infection can worsen quickly. A downloadable lab report is available in your account for your records, and if you're retested later, you can track results over time using the trends feature. Keep in mind a negative result doesn't fully rule out infection if the sample was taken late or after antibiotics were started.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common warning signs include sudden high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and a spotted or splotchy rash that often starts on the wrists and ankles. These symptoms typically appear within one to two weeks after a tick bite or exposure to fleas or lice in areas where these illnesses are common. If symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening, seek medical care right away rather than waiting on test results.

How can I naturally support recovery from a tick-borne infection?

While natural remedies cannot cure a Rickettsia infection, staying well hydrated, resting, and eating nutrient-dense foods can help your body cope while you receive appropriate care. Avoiding scratching or irritating any rash can prevent skin infections. Preventing future tick bites with protective clothing, tick repellent, and prompt tick removal is the best way to reduce your risk going forward.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being collected at the lab. Because this test is used to catch infections early, turnaround time is kept as fast as possible so you can get answers and take action quickly. You'll receive a notification and can view your results securely in your online account as soon as they're ready.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good option for anyone with recent tick, flea, or lice exposure who is now experiencing fever, rash, or flu-like symptoms, especially in regions known for tick-borne illness. It's also useful for people who work or spend time outdoors in wooded or grassy areas. If you've traveled to an area with known outbreaks of spotted fever or typhus and feel unwell, this test can help clarify what's going on.

What is Rickettsia infection and why does it matter?

Rickettsia are a type of bacteria spread by ticks, fleas, and lice that cause diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and typhus. These infections can escalate quickly, sometimes leading to serious complications affecting organs like the kidneys, lungs, or brain if not treated promptly. Because early antibiotic treatment is highly effective, quickly identifying the infection matters a lot for a full recovery.

What does a 'detected' result mean?

A 'detected' result means Rickettsia DNA was found in your blood, indicating an active infection at the time of collection. This usually means treatment should begin as soon as possible since these infections can worsen rapidly without antibiotics. Seek medical care promptly if you receive this result, especially if your symptoms are severe.

What causes a false negative on this test?

A 'not detected' result can happen even with a true infection if the sample was collected after the acute phase, after starting antibiotics, or too early before enough bacteria are circulating in the blood. This is why timing your test before starting any antibiotic treatment matters. If symptoms continue or worsen despite a negative result, it's worth seeking medical care and discussing further testing.

How often should I retest?

This test isn't meant for routine or repeated screening — it's designed for one-time use during an active, symptomatic illness. If your first test is negative but symptoms persist or worsen, retesting or additional evaluation may be warranted, ideally before starting antibiotics. Once treated, retesting isn't usually necessary since this test doesn't detect past infections.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Rickettsia PCR Test - Tick-Borne Fever Detection

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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