Seroepidemiology of dengue viral infection at a tertiary care hospital, Bommakal, Karimnagar, India

Introduction: Dengue viral fever has become a disease of major concern. India in last decade has faced many outbreaks and now declared as an endemic zone. Therefore, the present study was designed: Aim: To know the prevalence of dengue viral infection in the north east region of Telangana state Bommakal, Karimnagar, the prevalence of acute primary and recent secondary dengue viral infection and the influence of various demographic factors. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was designed during the period Jan.2015 –Dec. 2016 from 6706 suspects of dengue fever. Dengue NS1 antigen, IgM and IgG antibodies were detected using rapid immunochromatographic test from J. Mitra Co. Results: About 2686 (40.05%) gave a positive serological test for dengue viral infection. Acute primary dengue infection was diagnosed in 2375 (88.42%) of the suspects and recent secondary in 37 (1.37%) presumptively. Male predominance of 68.92% was noticed in suspects and as well seropositives as 64.18%. The most affected age group was 16-30 years followed by 31-45years as 58.32% and 25.39%. Further it is noticed that infection was prevalent throughout the year with seasonal spurts in monsoon and post monsoon. Highest percentage of suspects and cases were observed during the months Sep – Nov 72.93%% and 81.57%. Conclusion: Dengue primary infection is very high in this particular region of Telangana state and seasonal upsurge is seen during monsoon and post period of the year. High male preponderance is seen with maximum affected in the productive age group. Dengue ICT test are most suitable for point of care testing for early case detection and management but couldn't provide specific clue on disease epidemiology; which is essential for monitoring, surveillance and implementing effective vector control measures.