Epidemiology and seropositivity of dengue fever cases in a tertiary care hospital in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra

Abstract

The incidence of dengue has grown dramatically around the world. Due to unavailability of vaccine its prevention and control solely depends on the epidemiological surveillance which could help in implementation of effective control measures. Hence, it is important to characterize the circulating serotypes in the community. The present study was conducted to evaluate the epidemiology of dengue fever cases in Navi Mumbai area and to detect the circulating serotype in this region. A total of 1053 blood samples were tested for Dengue NS 1 Antigen and Dengue specific IgM and IgG Antibodies by rapid immune-chromatography. A total of 11 representative serum samples were sent to National Institute of Virology, Pune for serotyping. 277 blood samples showed positive result for either IgM, IgG Antibody or NS 1 antigen. They were predominantly observed in the males and in the age group of 18 to 45 years. The maximum number of positive cases was reported in post monsoon months. They were found to be DV 2 and DV 3 serotypes. The serotyping data from these samples reflects the epidemiology of circulating serotype in Navi Mumbai area which may help to develop effective control and management strategies against this impending dengue menace.