Frequency of Dengue virus Infection among Febrile Patients of Lahore

BACKGROUND: Dengue virus infection is one of the major global public health problems. The infection usually occurs with clinical manifestations ranging from an asymptomatic or mild febrile illness as classical dengue fever to the potentially life-threatening illness, dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. The objective of the current study was to observe the frequency and diagnosis of primary or secondary dengue viral infection among individuals in Lahore city, Pakistan.

METHODS: Study subjects were identified for the presence of dengue diagnostic markers including NS1 antigen, IgM and IgG antibody. The dengue specific antigen NS1 was detected by immonochromatography, while dengue specific antibodies (IgM and IgG) were measured through ELISA.

RESULTS: Total 98 (56%) out of 175 febrile cases were found infected by dengue virus. From total 98 confirmed dengue cases, NS1 antigen was detected in 59 (60.20%), IgM antibodies were present in 74 (75.51%) and IgG antibodies were detected in 40 (40.81%) individuals. Statistical analysis reveals correlation of NS1 antigen and IgM antibody among dengue patients with significant P-value (P < 0.01). Results indicated that 58 (59%) were infected by primary infection and 40 (41%) were infected by secondary infection. The most effected age group was 21-30 years (51.02%) and least effected age group was <10 years (3.06%). Males were observed higher in number 61 (62%) as compare to females 37 (38%). Overall, the frequency of dengue virus infections were 56% among undifferentiated febrile patients in Lahore city, Pakistan.

CONCLUSION: Dengue is found endemic in city population with increased incidence in monsoon and post monsoon. Constant vigilance of patients and dengue vector control awareness programs among public and health care officials could support in combating dengue.