Analysis of epidemiological and demographic component of dengue in rural Puducherry - A hospital based study

Abstract

Introduction: Dengue Fever (DF) is caused by dengue virus (DENV) which is transmitted by the bite of Aedes aegypti mosquito. Incidence of DF is more rampant in tropical and subtropical areas with severe complications. This hospital based study is the analysis of surveillance data on the prevalence of dengue among the rural population of Puducherry, India. Materials and Methods: All patients admitted in our institution with the suspicion of dengue during the period of January 2017 to February 2018 were included in this study irrespective of age and sex. A total of 1880 patients were subjected for dengue screening by tests for NS1 antigen and IgM antibody by ELISA method and IgG antibody detection was done by rapid card test. Results: Out of 1880 included in this study, 32.2% (607) were diagnosed as positive for dengue. Among them 58.2% (353) were male. The mostly affected persons were from the category 21-30yrs (9.57%) followed by 31-40 yrs (6.48 %). A total of 48.3% (293) were found to be reactive for dengue NS1 antigen alone whereas 22.6% (137) and 2.9% (18) are reactive for IgM and IgG respectively. A peak in the number of incidence was observed during the month of October (N=256) followed by September (N=124) and minimum was observed during January and February (N=5). Conclusion: About 32.2% of the suspected cases were reactive for dengue by serology, which was a considerable increase in incidence when compared to the previous study in this region. The increased rate of incidence in male/active working age group shows that outdoor activities may be associated with high risk for the acquisition of dengue. Vector control measures and awareness campaigns explaining the inherent features of the disease and preventive measures shall be helpful in downsizing the incidence. Keywords: Dengue fever, NS1 antigen, Severe dengue