Legionella Urine Antigen
The Legionella urine antigen test detects active Legionella infection quickly. It is a frontline test for diagnosing Legionnaires’ disease.
Turnaround time
2 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Legionella Urine Antigen
What is the Legionella Urine Antigen test?
The Legionella Urine Antigen test is a rapid diagnostic test that detects Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 antigen in a urine sample. This strain is responsible for the majority of Legionnaires’ disease cases worldwide.
Unlike antibody testing, which reflects past exposure, urine antigen testing identifies active infection, often within the first few days of illness. The antigen is released into the urine during infection, allowing fast and non-invasive detection.
This test is widely used in hospitals and private settings for early diagnosis of severe pneumonia, where prompt treatment is critical.
Why do I need a Legionella Urine Antigen test?
Legionnaires’ disease can progress rapidly and may be life-threatening, especially in older adults or those with weakened immunity. Early diagnosis significantly improves outcomes.
You may need this test if you:
- Have pneumonia or severe chest infection
- Have high fever and cough
- Experience shortness of breath
- Have recently stayed in a hotel, hospital or cruise ship
- Were exposed to air-conditioning or water systems
- Are immunocompromised
- Need rapid confirmation to start targeted antibiotics
Symptoms commonly associated with Legionnaires’ disease include:
- High fever
- Cough (often dry initially)
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Confusion or disorientation (severe cases)
Benefits of the Legionella Urine Antigen test
- Detects active infection
Identifies current Legionella disease. - Rapid diagnosis
Results available quickly compared to cultures. - Non-invasive sample
Simple urine collection. - High specificity
Reliable detection of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1. - Supports early treatment
Enables prompt antibiotic therapy. - Clinically recommended first-line test
Used in hospital pneumonia protocols. - Useful in outbreak situations
Rapid screening during suspected exposure events. - No fasting required
Convenient and easy to perform.
Step by step – how the test works
You can access Legionella Urine Antigen testing UK-wide through two options:
- Clinic appointment
Attend your nearest UK clinic and provide a urine sample. - At-home testing
Collect your urine sample at home using the provided kit and return it securely.
Your sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory, and results are delivered securely.
Your results explained
Negative urine antigen
No Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 antigen detected.
Typical UK interpretation:
- Legionella urine antigen: Not detected
Positive urine antigen
Active Legionella infection detected. Immediate clinical treatment is required.
Typical UK interpretation:
- Legionella urine antigen: Detected
Important notes
This test mainly detects L. pneumophila serogroup 1. Other strains may require additional testing.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.