Dengue fever

ABSTRACT

Pakistan has reported sporadic cases of Dengue fever [DF] and Dengue Haemorrhagic fever. The first recognized epidemic of DHF was recorded from Civil Hospital, Karachi and Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi in 1994-1995, published in 1997- 98. Majority of affected individuals are children. Although most children suffer non-specific symptoms, the mortality due to Dengue shock syndrome and Dengue haemorrhagic disease is much higher in children than in adults. Symptoms and signs include respiratory symptoms, as well as anaemia, hepatomegaly. A few studies have recorded patients with encephalopathy as well. Although the burden of disease due to dengue fever has not been determined in Pakistan, there is evidence that the menace of DF is increasing. Data from India, Bangladesh strongly suggest increasing incidence, with all 4 serotypes. This may be due to rapid urbanization with increase in breeding grounds for Aedes aegypti the vector which carries dengue virus. It is imperative for Pakistan to document the extent of the problem not only in Karachi but all over Pakistan. This is especially important considering the likely availability of various dengue vaccines in the near future. Surveillance studies should be under taken to document incidence of DF and DHF especially in children. This would help in considering Pakistan's policy regarding appropriate management and prevention to ensure universal morbidity and mortality secondary to DHF