Understanding dengue outbreaks in Rajshahi district, Bangladesh: A comprehensive case study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The 2023 dengue outbreak in Bangladesh marked an unprecedented increase in fatalities, particularly in Dhaka, and demonstrated extensive prevalence nationwide, including Rajshahi district. Dengue fever remains a significant public health challenge in Southeast Asia, with complex epidemiological patterns. Previous research has mainly focused on den serotypes in Dhaka. Therefore, this study aims to identify serotypes in the Rajshahi district under endemic conditions.

METHODS

Blood samples from suspected dengue patients were collected at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital. Initial rapid detection of dengue-positive cases was performed using (Nonstructural Protein 1 L) NS1, (Immunoglobulin G) IgG, and (Immunoglobulin M) IgM tests. Upon confirmation of dengue positivity, viral RNA was extracted for molecular testing. The dengue serotype was identified using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR).

RESULTS

The study revealed that 93.3 % of the patient were infected with (Dengue virus type 2) DENV2 and rest 6.7 % of the patient were (Dengue virus type 3) DENV3 among 30 dengue positive patients. Demographic observations show the distribution of dengue over nine upazilas. In Paba upazila, we found two DENV3 alongside DENV2.

CONCLUSION

The study concludes that the 2023 dengue outbreak in Rajshahi district, Bangladesh, predominantly involved the DENV2 serotype. Geospatial analysis underscores the importance of understanding regional distribution patterns to enhance targeted interventions against dengue fever in endemic areas.