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Legionella Urine Antigen

Viral & Bacterias Screen
164.99

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

Same-Day Appointments
UKAS Accredited Labs

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Under 18? Patients under 18 can only be seen at GB Medlabs and Clinilabs, Monday to Friday only.
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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:

  1. Clinic appointment
    Attend your nearest UK clinic and provide a urine sample.
  2. 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

1

Book Online

Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.

2

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.

3

Get Your Results

Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.

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How 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, for diagnosing active infection.

Often within the first few days of illness.

Not completely. Other strains may not be detected.

No fasting is required.

No fasting is required.

Yes. It is especially important in high-risk groups.

Yes. It is widely used for rapid case identification.

Yes. No blood or respiratory sample is required.

Usually no, especially early in treatment.

Yes. Home urine collection is available UK-wide.

Yes. Immediate medical assessment is essential.

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