A Study on the Epidemiological and Serotype Pattern of Dengue Outbreak in Sikkim

Introduction: The outbreak of Dengue was reported from South Sikkim (Jorethang) and East Sikkim (Rangpo) in September 2017. Objective: To confirm the dengue outbreak by ELISA to find the serotype of Dengue virus responsible for the outbreak in Sikkim. Materials and Methods: Serum samples from the two districts (outbreak areas) were tested by NS1Ag ELISA and IgM ELISA. The NS1Ag positive samples were sent to ICMR unit, NICED (National Institute of Cholera and Enteric disease), Kolkata for serotyping. Results: The most common age group affected was 16-30 years. Males were more affected than females. The outbreak occurred in the month of September 2017. The predominant serotype was DEN2 few cases of DENV 1, DENV3 and DENV4 were also found. Conclusion: Recent outbreak has established Dengue as an important disease of concern in Sikkim. Young age groups were more affected. Serotype 2 was the major circulatory serotype.