Abstract
Background: Multiple dengue outbreaks reported fromYemensince 2002. In March 2013, a suspected dengue outbreak was reported from Hadramoat. However, atypical neurological signs were reported for first time that may favor the diagnosis of West Nile Virus (WNV).FETP residents investigated the outbreak to confirm etiology and make recommendations to control and prevent similar outbreaks in the future. Methods & Materials: WHO case definitions for dengue and WNV were used. Data collected from the suspected cases on a predesigned form. Forty-two Blood specimens were collected and tested for dengue and WNV IgM. Results: During 8March to 6 July 2013, 352 (97%) of suspected cases met dengue case definition and 10 (3%) met WNV case definition. Male to female ratio was 2:1with a case fatality of 2%. Overall incidence rate was 3/1000 but highest (6.4/1000) among 10-19 years age group. Most reported symptoms among dengue cases were fever (100%), headache (99%), myalgia (98%). joint pain (96%) while among WNV cases fever (100%), headache (100%), photophobia (95%), nick rigidity (50%), and coma (50%)were reported. Out of 42 specimens tested for IgM4 (9%) were positive for dengue, 2 (5%) for WNV and 4 for both. Conclusion: Although the meningoencephalitis picture favors the diagnosis WNV, WNV has not been reported previously fromYemen. As cross reactivity may occur, PCR confirmation is still needed. The risk of introduction of WNV toYementhrough open borders and trade remains high. Beside strengthen surveillance system, multi-sectorial coordination and increased community awareness is crucial to prevent infection and transmission.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
