NS1 Antigen and IgM Antibody-based Prevalence of Dengue Infection in the Patna Region: A Five Years Study

Introduction: Dengue virus is considered an important mosquito-borne virus that currently poses a major health risk and belongs to the Flaviviridae family. The study was conducted to estimate the NS1 antigen and anti- dengue IgM antibody-based prevalence of dengue infection in Patna, Bihar and also to investigate the association of seasonal variation along with the gender-specific prevalence also.

Methods: The study involved collection, classification, and analysis of laboratory-based data of blood sample a period of 5 years with reference to dengue infection.

Results: During this period a total 7415 samples were referred to the laboratory for screening from different hospitals. Then data were analysed to determine the NS1 and IgM based prevalence against dengue virus. A total of 29.77% were found positive for NS1 and 21.71% were found positive for IgM. Further 64.17% males and 35.82% females were found NS1 positive. Similarly, 66.52 males and 33.48 females were found positive for IgM. Most of the dengue infection was reported in the post monsoon season.

Conclusions: So, from study we can conclude that serological testing for presumptive identification of dengue infections is useful for prevention and monitoring the prevalence. Furthermore, a concerted effort is needed to create regional awareness among people in this area.