Sero-Prevalence of Dengue Fever Virus Antibodies in Red Sea State, Sudan- A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Dengue fever (DF) is caused by dengue virus (DENV), a positive-sense single stranded RNA virus of the genus Flavivirus in the family Flaviviridae. The DF has been reported as one of the most important arboviral diseases in many parts of the world including Sudan. DENV is a widely spreading disease that has resulted in an emerging infectious disease world-wide.

Aim: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of dengue virus in Red sea state, Sudan.

Materials and Methods: This study is a cross sectional study, carried out in Eastern part of Sudan with an impartial method to determine the DENV antibodies status in Red Sea state, Sudan, Dengue Virus (DENV) antibody test was done for each sample. Blood samples were collected from each patient in a plain container, and then serum was separated and tested for (DENV) IgM by using ELISA.

Results: Of the total 380 dengue cases tested 106 (27.9%) were identified as anti-dengue IgM positive. 57.1% (n=217) were females and 42.9% (n=163) were males, the highest numbers of cases; 152 (40%) from the age group between 40 years and above and least numbers of cases; 47(12.4%) from the age group of 10-19 years. 55 (14.5%) cases among age groups of less than 10 years, 73 (19.2%) from the age group 20-29 years and six 53 (13.9%) from the age group between 30-39 years of age.

Conclusion: We can conclude that serotypes (IgM) of dengue virus prevalence is 27.9% in Red Sea State, Sudan and this finding indicate that the residents of the Red State are at risk of developing the disease. Also, there was significant variation between age and the occurrence of the disease. The Ministry of health should initiate dengue surveillance and commence an integrated vector control programme.