Facility-Based Cross-Sectional Survey on Aedes-Borne Diseases and Associated Symptoms among Febrile Patients During the 2019 Dengue Outbreak in Moshi Rural District, Tanzania

Abstract

Background: Diseases caused by Aedes-borne viruses, such as; dengue, chikungunya, and Zika are emerging and re- emerging in different parts of the world. Tanzania has experienced several dengue outbreaks since 2010. The present study aims to determine the seroprevalence and associated symptoms of dengue and chikungunya fever in the Moshi rural district during the 2019 dengue outbreak. Methodology: A facility-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in 15 health facilities in the Moshi Rural district. A total of 397 participants with malaria-like symptoms were enrolled. Participants were screened for seropositivity towards dengue and chikungunya Immunoglobulin G and M (IgG and IgM) using ELISA-based kits. Results: Out of 397 participants, 28 (7.1 %) and 8 (2.0%) were dengue IgM and IgG positive respectively. Chikungunya IgM positives were 34 (8.6%). The most commonly reported symptoms were; headache 189 (27.7%), joint pains 132 (19.4%) and muscle pain 106 (15.5%). Factors such as being a farmer and history of travelling to outside regions was associated with dengue IgM seropositivity (p<.05). Conclusion: Aedes-borne illnesses appear to be endemic in the area, with IgG antibodies against the Chikungunya virus being more prevalent among study participants. These results provide an understanding of arboviral diseases as well as provide an early warning signal on the risk of transmission in north Tanzania. The results inform the allocation of local and national public health intervention to prevent future outbreaks.